Pumpkin Patch Tarantula (Psalmopoeus sp. “Pumpkin Patch”)
Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only
Please note that we do not ship live animals. You can order online and collect in store.
Pumpkin Patch Tarantula (Hapalopus formosus Klein) Care Sheet
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Pumpkin Patch Tarantula |
| Scientific Name | Hapalopus formosus Klein form |
| Origin | Trinidad & Tobago, Caribbean |
| Adult Size | 12–15 cm leg span |
| Lifespan | Females: 12–15 years, Males: 3–5 years |
| Activity | Terrestrial, nocturnal predator |
Behavior
-
Fast, nervous, and defensive; not recommended for handling.
-
Terrestrial.
-
Active hunter at night; may display threat posture when disturbed.
Enclosure Requirements
-
Tank Size: Minimum 20–30 liters vertical for a single adult
-
Substrate: 4–6 cm of coconut fiber, peat moss, or soil (for base of enclosure)
-
Decor: Cork bark, branches, and vertical surfaces for climbing and retreats
-
Humidity: 70–80%
-
Temperature:
-
Day: 24–28°C
-
Night: 20–24°C
-
-
Lighting: Low light; indirect only
-
Ventilation: Moderate airflow to prevent mold
Compatibility
-
Best housed singly; highly territorial and defensive.
-
Avoid cohabiting with other spiders or arthropods.
Diet
-
Carnivorous; feeds on live prey:
-
Crickets
-
Roaches
-
Mealworms / superworms
-
-
Feed juveniles 2–3× per week; adults 1× per week
-
Provide shallow water dish
-
Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours
Care Tips
-
Avoid handling; very fast and defensive.
-
Maintain proper humidity and provide climbing surfaces for retreats.
-
Spot-clean regularly; remove mold and waste.
-
Secure lid required; excellent climber and escape-prone if stressed.
Visual Quick Guide
-
🏠 Enclosure: ≥20–30 L substrate, hides
-
🌡️ Temp: Day 24–28°C / Night 20–24°C
-
💧 Humidity: 70–80%
-
🍴 Diet: Carnivorous (live insects)
-
🕒 Activity: Nocturnal
-
⚠️ Stress: Avoid handling; provide climbing surfaces and silk retreats
Please note: We don't ship live animals. You can order online and choose click and collect, and we will hold it for you.
