Arachnid · Terrestrial tarantula

Dominican purple tarantula care guide

Phormictopus atrichomatus

Intermediate

The dominican purple tarantula is a intermediate-level terrestrial tarantula from Dominican Republic. Adults reach Leg span 15–18 cm and live Females 15–25 years, males 3–5 years in captivity. Hardy Caribbean species with a bold temperament; give a deep hide.

  • Enclosure 45 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Temp 24–28°C
  • Humidity 60–70%

How much does a dominican purple tarantula cost in Canada?

Animal$50–150Typical captive-bred price
Bioactive enclosure$130–230Enclosure $40–80 · equipment $40–90 · bioactive supplies ≈ $60
Yearly upkeep$50–100Food, supplements, bulbs, power, vet fund
First year total$230–480All prices CAD, estimates

Dominican purple tarantula quick facts

Skill level
Intermediate
Adult size
Leg span 15–18 cm
Lifespan
Females 15–25 years, males 3–5 years
Activity
Nocturnal
Native range
Dominican Republic
Minimum enclosure
45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 11 US gal)
Housing
Best kept alone.
Temperature
24–28°C
Humidity
60–70%
UVB
Not needed
Diet
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
Bioactive style
Terrestrial tarantula

Dominican purple tarantula enclosure & bioactive setup

Give one adult at least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (18 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a terrestrial tarantula bioactive build.

  1. Leaf litter2 cm
  2. Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix12 cm

Keep the gap between the soil surface and the lid no more than about twice the spider’s leg span, to prevent falls.

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 60–70%. UVB: Not needed.

What does a dominican purple tarantula eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–4 large roaches or crickets every 7–10 days; slings eat heavily and grow fast.

Handling, temperament & health

Defensive and fast with a strong feeding response; do not handle.

Health watch: Watch for dehydration and stuck molts; always provide a water dish and never feed a molting spider.

Cleaning & maintenance schedule

Daily

  • Quick visual check – no need to disturb.

Weekly

  • Offer food; remove leftovers (boluses) within 24 h.
  • Refill the water dish; overflow it slightly now and then to dampen one corner.

Monthly

  • Check crew and moisture; a dry top with a slightly moist lower layer is ideal.

Yearly

  • Rehouse into a larger enclosure as the spider grows.

Recommended for a dominican purple tarantula bioactive

Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (45 × 30 × 30 cm).

Dominican purple tarantula FAQ

Is the dominican purple tarantula good for beginners?

The dominican purple tarantula is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Defensive and fast with a strong feeding response; do not handle.

What size enclosure does a dominican purple tarantula need?

At least 45 × 30 × 30 cm (about 18 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 11 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.

How much does a dominican purple tarantula cost in Canada?

Typically $50–150 CAD to buy, about $130–230 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $50–100 CAD a year to keep.

What temperature and humidity does a dominican purple tarantula need?

Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 60–70%.

What does a dominican purple tarantula eat?

Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 2–4 large roaches or crickets every 7–10 days; slings eat heavily and grow fast.

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This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.