
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Poecilotheria fasciata
An arboreal tarantula endemic to central Sri Lanka and the type species of the genus. It is covered in intricate black, white and grey cryptic markings, with a pale grey foliate band running the length of the abdomen. It is strongly defensive when disturbed.
Poecilotheria fasciata is a large arboreal tarantula endemic to central Sri Lanka and the type species of the genus, described by Latreille in 1804 as Mygale fasciata. It can be told from other ornamental tarantulas by the very narrow dark band on the femur of the first pair of legs and the thin broken band on the femur of the fourth pair. Females are dorsally covered in black, white and grey cryptic markings, with a light grey foliate median band running the whole length of the opisthosoma; males are a more uniform brown with weaker markings. The species occurs in the dry and intermediate zones of Sri Lanka and is most abundant in tree hollows and under bark, in coconut and banana plantations and sometimes in human dwellings. Males are nomadic while females are not. When disturbed it is very defensive and nimble. In 2018 it was listed for protection under the US Endangered Species Act.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Sri Lankan Ornamental lives Females 12-15 years / males 3-4 years.
The Sri Lankan Ornamental grows to Body length: females 4.5-5cm, males 3.2-3.5cm.
Females have a body length of 45-50 mm and males are smaller at 32-35 mm.
The ideal temperature for the Sri Lankan Ornamental is 24〜27℃. Ideal humidity is 65〜75%.
Origin
Central Sri Lanka (endemic)
Sources: Wikipedia / Wikipedia: Poecilotheria (genus) / GBIF / The Tarantula Collective: Poecilotheria regalis (congener reference)
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.
Accepted name: Poecilotheria fasciata (Latreille, 1804)
Synonyms: Mygale fasciata Latreille, 1804
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Since 2019 all species of Poecilotheria have been listed on CITES Appendix II; international trade requires a CITES export permit from the country of export.
Sources: CITES Appendices (Poecilotheria spp. Appendix II)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Lifespan
Females 12-15 years / males 3-4 years
Size
Body length: females 4.5-5cm, males 3.2-3.5cm
Temperature
24〜27℃
Humidity
65〜75%
Live insects such as crickets and roaches
Care information for the genus gives 24-27 C and 65-75% humidity, with good ventilation needed to prevent mould.
Arboreal, so use a tall enclosure. Stand cork bark vertically to imitate a tree hollow and provide a water dish.
Offer live insects such as crickets and roaches. It ambushes rather than webs its prey, so feed live.
Very defensive when disturbed, and fast. It has no urticating hairs and relies on venom, which in this genus is regarded as medically significant; do not handle it.
Listed on CITES Appendix II, so international trade requires a permit, and in 2018 it was protected under the US Endangered Species Act. Its area of occupancy is given as under 500 square kilometres.
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
The ideal temperature for Sri Lankan Ornamental is 24〜27℃. Recommended humidity is 65〜75%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Sri Lankan Ornamental is Females 12-15 years / males 3-4 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Sri Lankan Ornamental typically reaches Body length: females 4.5-5cm, males 3.2-3.5cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Sri Lankan Ornamental feeds on: Live insects such as crickets and roaches. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Sri Lankan Ornamental varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 17, 2026