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Poecilotheria metallica
A one-of-a-kind arboreal Old World species glowing in vivid metallic blue. A rarity from a tiny range in India, it is fast and venomous—strictly for advanced keepers.
The Gooty Sapphire Ornamental (Poecilotheria metallica) is a one-of-a-kind arboreal Old World species glowing in vivid metallic blue, found only in a tiny patch of forest in Andhra Pradesh, India, and reaching a 15–18cm leg span. This rarity is fast and venomous, making it strictly an advanced keeper's species. Defensive and quick with medically significant venom, it should never be handled directly.
The Gooty Sapphire Ornamental lives Female 12-15 years / Male 3-4 years.
The Gooty Sapphire Ornamental grows to Leg span 15-18 cm.
The ideal temperature for the Gooty Sapphire Ornamental is 24〜28℃. Ideal humidity is 70〜80%.
Kept at 24–28°C with 70–80% humidity, it is fed crickets and dubia roaches about once a week.
Origin
A small forest range in Andhra Pradesh, India
Lifespan
Female 12-15 years / Male 3-4 years
Size
Leg span 15-18 cm
Temperature
24〜28℃
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Poecilotheria metallica Pocock, 1899
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Poecilotheria metallica. Listed in CITES Appendix II. Checked on Species+ (2026-09-18).
Sources: Species+ (CITES)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Humidity
70〜80%
Live insects such as crickets and roaches, offered roughly weekly.
Tall enclosure with vertical cork bark hides for an arboreal layout.
24-28°C, 70-80% humidity; keep humid with ventilation.
Feed about weekly; work quickly and carefully given its speed.
No urticating hairs, but potent venom can cause severe pain and muscle cramps; never handle.
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Gooty Sapphire Ornamental is 24〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 70〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Gooty Sapphire Ornamental is Female 12-15 years / Male 3-4 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Gooty Sapphire Ornamental typically reaches Leg span 15-18 cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Gooty Sapphire Ornamental feeds on: Live insects such as crickets and roaches, offered roughly weekly.. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Gooty Sapphire Ornamental varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 18, 2026