Top 10 Arboreal Spiders for Hobbyists

For arachnid enthusiasts seeking a vertical twist to their collection, arboreal spiders offer a captivating display of beauty and unique behaviors. Here's a curated list of the top 10 arboreal spiders, each boasting a special trait, along with their approximate prices, recommended experience levels, and dietary preferences.

  1. 1. Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia avicularia):

    • Special Trait: Distinctive pinkish coloration on its toes.
    • Price: $50 - $150
    • Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
    • Diet: Insects such as crickets, roaches, and moths.

  2. 2. Gooty Sapphire Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria metallica):

    • Special Trait: Stunning metallic blue coloration.
    • Price: $150 - $500
    • Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
    • Diet: Large insects, such as crickets and locusts.

  3. 3. Venezuelan Sun Tiger (Psalmopoeus irminia):

    • Special Trait: Striking orange and black patterning.
    • Price: $80 - $200
    • Experience Level: Intermediate
    • Diet: Appropriately sized insects, including crickets and mealworms.

  4. 4. Mexican Red-Leg Tarantula (Brachypelma emilia):

    • Special Trait: Striking red-orange coloration on its legs.
    • Price: $80 - $200
    • Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
    • Diet: Insects like crickets, roaches, and occasional small vertebrates.

  5. 5. Indian Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria regalis):

    • Special Trait: Ornate patterns and vibrant colors.
    • Price: $100 - $300
    • Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
    • Diet: Larger insects such as crickets and roaches.

  6. 6. Emerald Skeleton Tarantula (Ephebopus murinus):

    • Special Trait: Striking emerald green coloration.
    • Price: $80 - $150
    • Experience Level: Intermediate
    • Diet: Insects and occasional small vertebrates.

  7. 7. Brazilian Pink Bloom Tarantula (Pamphobeteus vespertinus):

    • Special Trait: Unique pink coloration.
    • Price: $150 - $300
    • Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
    • Diet: A varied diet of crickets, roaches, and small vertebrates.

  8. 8. Singapore Blue Tarantula (Lampropelma violaceopes):

    • Special Trait: Vibrant blue coloration.
    • Price: $100 - $250
    • Experience Level: Intermediate
    • Diet: Insects, such as crickets and roaches.

  9. 9. Feather Leg Baboon Tarantula (Stromatopelma calceatum):

    • Special Trait: Dense "feathers" on its legs.
    • Price: $80 - $150
    • Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced
    • Diet: Appropriately sized insects, including crickets and locusts.

  10. 10. Malaysian Earth Tiger (Cyriopagopus schioedtei):

    • Special Trait: Earthy brown coloration with intricate patterns.
    • Price: $80 - $150
    • Experience Level: Intermediate
    • Diet: A variety of insects, such as crickets and mealworms.

Tips for Arboreal Spider Care:

  • Enclosure: Provide vertical space with plenty of climbing opportunities and anchor points.
  • Substrate: A mix of coconut coir and sphagnum moss promotes humidity and burrowing.
  • Hiding Places: Include cork bark or artificial plants for secure hiding spots.
  • Temperature and Humidity: Maintain temperatures between 75-80°F (24-27°C) with humidity levels around 70%.
  • Feeding: Offer a varied diet of appropriately sized live insects, and adjust frequency based on the spider's age and size.

Selecting an arboreal spider that aligns with your experience level and care capabilities ensures a rewarding and enriching journey into the world of these mesmerizing creatures. From the vibrant hues of the Gooty Sapphire Ornamental to the unique pink toes of the Pink Toe Tarantula, each species brings its own charm to your arachnid collection. Happy tarantula keeping!