π Big Z's Care Guides β free, downloadable, and species-specific.Husbandry walkthroughs covering enclosure setup, humidity & temperature targets, feeding schedules, molt protocol, and emergency triage. Written by experienced keepers, formatted for easy reference, and free with every order.
Acanthoscurria geniculata
Acladocricus sp. Philippine Blue
Alipes grandidieri
Anadenobolus monilicornis
Androctonus spp.
Aphistogoniulus spp.
Aphonopelma seemanni
Aphonopelma spp.
Archispirostreptus gigas
Augacephalus spp.
Avicularia avicularia
Babycurus jacksoni
Brachypelma boehmei
Brachypelma hamorii / Brachypelma smithi group
Caribena spp.
Centrobolus splendidus
Centruroides gracilis
Centruroides sculpturatus
Ceratogyrus spp.
Cherokia georgiana
Chicobolus spinigerus
Chilobrachys spp.
Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens
Cormocephalus spp.
Cyriocosmus spp.
Cyriopagopus spp.
Damon spp.
Davus pentaloris
Leiurus quinquestriatus
Diplocentrus spitzeri
Ephebopus spp.
Ethmostigmus sp. Borneo Blue
Eupalaestrus larae
Grammostola pulchra
Grammostola pulchripes
Grammostola rosea RCF
Teruelius grandidieri
Hadogenes paucidens
Hadrurus arizonensis
Hapalopus formosus
Harpactira spp.
Heterometrus spp.
Heteroscodra maculata
Hogna carolinensis
Holothele spp.
Hottentotta caboverdensis
Hottentotta flavidulus
Hottentotta tamulus
Hyleoglomeris cf. Bomba
Hysterocrates gigas
Idiothele mira
Kukulcania arizonica
Lasiocyano sazimai
Lasiodora spp.
Leiurus jordanensis
Leptogoniulus sorornus
Lychas spp.
Mastigoproctus giganteus group
Monocentropus balfouri
Narceus americanus
Nebo whitei
Neoholothele incei
Nhandu spp.
Opistophthalmus spp.
Ornithoctonus spp.
Orthoporus ornatus
Otostigmus spp.
Pamphobeteus spp.
Pandinurus exitialis
Pandinus imperator
Parabuthus maximus
Paravaejovis spinigerus
Pelinobius muticus
Pelmatojulus ligulatus
Peucetia viridans
Phidippus regius
Phormictopus spp.
Phrynus marginemaculatus
Poecilotheria spp.
Porcellio laevis
Psalmopoeus cambridgei
Psalmopoeus irminia
Psalmopoeus victori
Psytalla horrida
Pterinochilus murinus group
Rhagodes sp.
Rhopalomeris carnifex
Rhysida longipes
Scolopendra cingulata
Scolopendra dehaani
Scolopendra multidens
Scolopendra polymorpha
Scolopendropsis bahiensis
Smeringurus mesaensis
Spirobollelus immigrans
Spirobolus spp.
Spirostreptus spp.
Stromatopelma calceatum
Tapinauchenius spp.
Theraphosa blondi
Tigrosa georgicola
Tityus spp.
Tliltocatl spp.
Tonkinbolus dollfusi
Trigoniulus corallinus
White Isopods
Ybyrapora spp.
Try the SpecieZs name, common name, Buddy setup, or care group.
Acanthoscurria geniculata
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A bold, fast-growing terrestrial with a huge feeding response and impressive adult size β 7β9 inches across, with females living roughly 12β20 years.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate-High (70-85%) |
| Setup | Large terrestrial |
| Substrate | Moderately deep soil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Strong feeder; weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Acanthoscurria geniculata
Keeper Snapshot: A bold, fast-growing terrestrial with a huge feeding response and impressive adult size β 7β9 inches across, with females living roughly 12β20 years.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate-High (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Large terrestrial |
| Substrate | Moderately deep soil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Strong feeder; weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Acladocricus sp. Philippine Blue
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large tropical communal millipede that needs deep moist substrate, steady humidity, and enough floor space for group keeping.
| Temp | 74β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Large tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep leaf/rotten wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaves, rotten wood, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Acladocricus sp. Philippine Blue
Keeper Snapshot: A large tropical communal millipede that needs deep moist substrate, steady humidity, and enough floor space for group keeping.
| Temperature | 74β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Large tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep leaf/rotten wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaves, rotten wood, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Alipes grandidieri
Big Z's Quick Verdict: An East African centipede with a unique trick: flat, paddle-shaped terminal legs it rustles to produce a hissing sound when threatened. Quick, but less aggressive than a Scolopendra of the same size β though still a venomous bite and an escape artist, so never handle. Adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid; ventilated) |
| Setup | Tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with a humid retreat; locked lid |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Alipes grandidieri
Keeper Snapshot: An East African centipede with a unique trick: flat, paddle-shaped terminal legs it rustles to produce a hissing sound when threatened. Quick, but less aggressive than a Scolopendra of the same size β though still a venomous bite and an escape artist, so never handle. Adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with a humid retreat; locked lid |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Anadenobolus monilicornis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small, colorful beginner millipede that does well communally in humid leaf litter setups β adults reach about 2.5β3.5 inches.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Anadenobolus monilicornis
Keeper Snapshot: A small, colorful beginner millipede that does well communally in humid leaf litter setups β adults reach about 2.5β3.5 inches.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Androctonus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Among the deadliest scorpions in the world β fat-tails: aggressive, fast-striking, lethal venom, and responsible for human fatalities (A. australis, A. crassicauda). A. bicolor is the jet-black one. Serious hot-keeper territory only, with legal authorization and a documented antivenom-access plan. Adults reach about 3.5β5 inches.
| Temp | 80β95Β°F (day), cooler at night |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) (arid; dry deep sand) |
| Setup | Hot arid buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand-and-soil mix, deep enough to burrow; a tight hide |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Androctonus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Among the deadliest scorpions in the world β fat-tails: aggressive, fast-striking, lethal venom, and responsible for human fatalities (A. australis, A. crassicauda). A. bicolor is the jet-black one. Serious hot-keeper territory only, with legal authorization and a documented antivenom-access plan. Adults reach about 3.5β5 inches.
| Temperature | 80β95Β°F (day), cooler at night |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) (arid; dry deep sand) |
| Setup Type | Hot arid buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand-and-soil mix, deep enough to burrow; a tight hide |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Aphistogoniulus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The bright red Madagascar fire millipedes β A. corallipes and relatives: communal humid-tropical millipedes needing deep edible leaf-litter substrate, calcium, moisture with airflow, and striking coral-red color. Adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup | Tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist lower layer |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Aphistogoniulus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The bright red Madagascar fire millipedes β A. corallipes and relatives: communal humid-tropical millipedes needing deep edible leaf-litter substrate, calcium, moisture with airflow, and striking coral-red color. Adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist lower layer |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Aphonopelma seemanni
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A classic striped-knee tarantula that is hardier than its reputation when given depth and a real moisture gradient. More burrow-focused and more skittish than the desert Aphonopelma staples.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Moisture-gradient fossorial terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep soil/coco mix with a damp lower layer and drier surface |
| Feeding | Weekly for juveniles; adults every 1β3 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended; can bolt or kick hairs |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Aphonopelma seemanni
Keeper Snapshot: A classic striped-knee tarantula that is hardier than its reputation when given depth and a real moisture gradient. More burrow-focused and more skittish than the desert Aphonopelma staples.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Moisture-gradient fossorial terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep soil/coco mix with a damp lower layer and drier surface |
| Feeding | Weekly for juveniles; adults every 1β3 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended; can bolt or kick hairs |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Aphonopelma spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The US and Central American desert tarantulas β calm, bulletproof, and among the longest-lived spiders in the hobby. The only hard part is patience: A. chalcodes females can take a decade-plus to mature. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 75β88Β°F (tolerates cool winter dips) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial / fossorial (dry) |
| Substrate | Dry sand/topsoil mix; A. seemanni wants 6β8 in for burrowing plus one damp corner |
| Feeding | Offer appropriately sized prey every 7-10 days; known to fast for months |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Aphonopelma spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The US and Central American desert tarantulas β calm, bulletproof, and among the longest-lived spiders in the hobby. The only hard part is patience: A. chalcodes females can take a decade-plus to mature. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β88Β°F (tolerates cool winter dips) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial / fossorial (dry) |
| Substrate | Dry sand/topsoil mix; A. seemanni wants 6β8 in for burrowing plus one damp corner |
| Feeding | Offer appropriately sized prey every 7-10 days; known to fast for months |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Archispirostreptus gigas
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A giant, peaceful communal millipede that needs deep edible substrate and consistent humidity β at 8β12 inches, the largest millipede commonly kept.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Large tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep rotten wood/leaf-based substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, rotten wood, vegetables, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Archispirostreptus gigas
Keeper Snapshot: A giant, peaceful communal millipede that needs deep edible substrate and consistent humidity β at 8β12 inches, the largest millipede commonly kept.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Large tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep rotten wood/leaf-based substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, rotten wood, vegetables, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Augacephalus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Southeast African obligate burrowers β A. junodi (Mozambique baboon) and A. ezendami: rarely seen, defensive when exposed, and basically a 'pet hole' that you maintain by maintaining its burrow. Old World speed and a potent bite. Adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry, deep substrate; water dish) |
| Setup | Fossorial (deep, dry burrow) |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco/topsoil, 6β8 in, with a starter burrow |
| Feeding | Medium feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks; prey near the burrow |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Augacephalus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Southeast African obligate burrowers β A. junodi (Mozambique baboon) and A. ezendami: rarely seen, defensive when exposed, and basically a 'pet hole' that you maintain by maintaining its burrow. Old World speed and a potent bite. Adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry, deep substrate; water dish) |
| Setup Type | Fossorial (deep, dry burrow) |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco/topsoil, 6β8 in, with a starter burrow |
| Feeding | Medium feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks; prey near the burrow |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Avicularia avicularia
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A classic beginner arboreal, but only when airflow is excellent β adults reach about 4.5β6.5 inches across (size varies by morphotype).
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Arboreal with heavy ventilation |
| Substrate | Mostly dry/lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Avicularia avicularia
Keeper Snapshot: A classic beginner arboreal, but only when airflow is excellent β adults reach about 4.5β6.5 inches across (size varies by morphotype).
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal with heavy ventilation |
| Substrate | Mostly dry/lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Babycurus jacksoni
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small East African forest buthid β the Tanzanian red-claw: humid setup, fast, with moderate (not life-threatening, but not trivial) venom. A 'hot-keeper-lite' species β more serious than an emperor, far less serious than a deathstalker. Adults reach about 2.5β3 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid forest; ventilated) |
| Setup | Humid forest buthid (small) |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix with leaf litter and a hide; ventilated |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Babycurus jacksoni
Keeper Snapshot: A small East African forest buthid β the Tanzanian red-claw: humid setup, fast, with moderate (not life-threatening, but not trivial) venom. A 'hot-keeper-lite' species β more serious than an emperor, far less serious than a deathstalker. Adults reach about 2.5β3 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid forest; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Humid forest buthid (small) |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix with leaf litter and a hide; ventilated |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Brachypelma boehmei
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A colorful, dry terrestrial tarantula that is hardy but often hair-kicky. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across, grow slowly, and females can live 20β30 years.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Dry terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Weekly for juveniles; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Brachypelma boehmei
Keeper Snapshot: A colorful, dry terrestrial tarantula that is hardy but often hair-kicky. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across, grow slowly, and females can live 20β30 years.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Dry terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Weekly for juveniles; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Brachypelma hamorii / Brachypelma smithi group
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The classic redknee starter tarantula: slow-growing, hardy, long-lived, and usually calm, but still a fragile terrestrial spider with urticating hairs and CITES paperwork expectations.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Dry terrestrial new-world tarantula |
| Substrate | Mostly dry soil/coco mix, 3β5 in, with a hide and water dish |
| Feeding | Slings weekly; adults every 2β3 weeks based on abdomen condition |
| Handling | Not recommended; calm does not mean drop-safe |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Brachypelma hamorii / Brachypelma smithi group
Keeper Snapshot: The classic redknee starter tarantula: slow-growing, hardy, long-lived, and usually calm, but still a fragile terrestrial spider with urticating hairs and CITES paperwork expectations.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Dry terrestrial new-world tarantula |
| Substrate | Mostly dry soil/coco mix, 3β5 in, with a hide and water dish |
| Feeding | Slings weekly; adults every 2β3 weeks based on abdomen condition |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended; calm does not mean drop-safe |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Caribena spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The Antilles pinktoe C. versicolor β the iconic electric-blue sling that matures to a green-and-red adult β and the Puerto Rican pinktoe C. laeta (split from Avicularia in 2017). Docile but extremely skittish jumpers; the slings are the unforgiving part, killed by stagnant damp air far more than anything else. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (dry substrate + water dish; light droplets on the webbing 2β3Γ/week, then dry out) |
| Setup | Arboreal with heavy ventilation |
| Substrate | Dry substrate, 1β2 in; a mould-resistant mix (e.g. reptisoil) beats plain coco for slings |
| Feeding | Strong eaters as slings β crickets over mealworms; weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Caribena spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The Antilles pinktoe C. versicolor β the iconic electric-blue sling that matures to a green-and-red adult β and the Puerto Rican pinktoe C. laeta (split from Avicularia in 2017). Docile but extremely skittish jumpers; the slings are the unforgiving part, killed by stagnant damp air far more than anything else. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (dry substrate + water dish; light droplets on the webbing 2β3Γ/week, then dry out) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal with heavy ventilation |
| Substrate | Dry substrate, 1β2 in; a mould-resistant mix (e.g. reptisoil) beats plain coco for slings |
| Feeding | Strong eaters as slings β crickets over mealworms; weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Centrobolus splendidus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A vivid tropical communal millipede that needs warmth, moisture, and clean edible substrate β adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist hardwood leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Centrobolus splendidus
Keeper Snapshot: A vivid tropical communal millipede that needs warmth, moisture, and clean edible substrate β adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist hardwood leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Centruroides gracilis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large, fast bark scorpion with more humidity tolerance than desert bark species β adults reach about 2.5β4 inches, among the larger Centruroides, and can be kept in carefully managed groups.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Semi-arboreal bark/crevice scorpion |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix kept lightly dry with a humid retreat |
| Feeding | Roaches or crickets weekly |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Centruroides gracilis
Keeper Snapshot: A large, fast bark scorpion with more humidity tolerance than desert bark species β adults reach about 2.5β4 inches, among the larger Centruroides, and can be kept in carefully managed groups.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arboreal bark/crevice scorpion |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix kept lightly dry with a humid retreat |
| Feeding | Roaches or crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Centruroides sculpturatus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A fast, climbing desert bark scorpion with medically significant venom β adults only reach about 2.5β3 inches. Display animal only.
| Temp | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Extremely low to low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Semi-arboreal bark scorpion |
| Substrate | Dry soil/sand mix + one lightly damp corner |
| Feeding | Small roaches or crickets weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Centruroides sculpturatus
Keeper Snapshot: A fast, climbing desert bark scorpion with medically significant venom β adults only reach about 2.5β3 inches. Display animal only.
| Temperature | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Extremely low to low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arboreal bark scorpion |
| Substrate | Dry soil/sand mix + one lightly damp corner |
| Feeding | Small roaches or crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Ceratogyrus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The horned baboons β Southern African fossorials with the famous cuticular 'horn' on the carapace (C. darlingi rear-curving, C. marshalli straight-up). Fast and defensive, but they retreat into the burrow rather than stand and fight, which makes them the boards' usual 'first Old World' pick β less hair-trigger than an OBT. Adults reach about 4.5β5.5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry, with a water dish) |
| Setup | Fossorial (dry, deep burrow) |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco/topsoil, 6 in+, with a starter burrow; cork bark anchored |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Ceratogyrus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The horned baboons β Southern African fossorials with the famous cuticular 'horn' on the carapace (C. darlingi rear-curving, C. marshalli straight-up). Fast and defensive, but they retreat into the burrow rather than stand and fight, which makes them the boards' usual 'first Old World' pick β less hair-trigger than an OBT. Adults reach about 4.5β5.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry, with a water dish) |
| Setup Type | Fossorial (dry, deep burrow) |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco/topsoil, 6 in+, with a starter burrow; cork bark anchored |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Cherokia georgiana
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small Eastern-US flat-backed millipede and charming display colony animal β the cherry millipede, named for the almond/cherry scent of its cyanide-bearing defensive secretion. Cool, moist, temperate leaf-litter care. Adults reach only about 1β1.5 inches.
| Temp | 60β75Β°F (cool temperate) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) (cool, moist leaf litter; ventilated) |
| Setup | Cool moist temperate communal millipede (flat-back) |
| Substrate | Moist deciduous leaf litter over a thin organic layer; cool |
| Feeding | Decaying deciduous leaves; a little calcium; light veggie supplements |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Cherokia georgiana
Keeper Snapshot: A small Eastern-US flat-backed millipede and charming display colony animal β the cherry millipede, named for the almond/cherry scent of its cyanide-bearing defensive secretion. Cool, moist, temperate leaf-litter care. Adults reach only about 1β1.5 inches.
| Temperature | 60β75Β°F (cool temperate) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) (cool, moist leaf litter; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Cool moist temperate communal millipede (flat-back) |
| Substrate | Moist deciduous leaf litter over a thin organic layer; cool |
| Feeding | Decaying deciduous leaves; a little calcium; light veggie supplements |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Chicobolus spinigerus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A beautiful US-native communal millipede with the same care across standard and purple morphs β adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temp | 72β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Moist terrestrial communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaves, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Chicobolus spinigerus
Keeper Snapshot: A beautiful US-native communal millipede with the same care across standard and purple morphs β adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temperature | 72β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Moist terrestrial communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaves, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Chilobrachys spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Fast fossorial Old World tarantulas requiring deep substrate and careful containment β and heavy webbers that build silk tunnels above ground too. Adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across and grow fast.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Deep fossorial + heavy webber |
| Substrate | Deep moist substrate + above-ground web anchors |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Chilobrachys spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Fast fossorial Old World tarantulas requiring deep substrate and careful containment β and heavy webbers that build silk tunnels above ground too. Adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across and grow fast.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Deep fossorial + heavy webber |
| Substrate | Deep moist substrate + above-ground web anchors |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A colorful, heavy-webbing New World display tarantula with dry-leaning care, strong feeding response, and more speed than the true beginner classics.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low to moderate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Dry terrestrial / heavy-web display setup |
| Substrate | Mostly dry terrestrial substrate with cork, twigs, and anchor points for webbing |
| Feeding | Roaches or crickets every 7β10 days for juveniles; less often as adults or when premolt starts |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens
Keeper Snapshot: A colorful, heavy-webbing New World display tarantula with dry-leaning care, strong feeding response, and more speed than the true beginner classics.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low to moderate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Dry terrestrial / heavy-web display setup |
| Substrate | Mostly dry terrestrial substrate with cork, twigs, and anchor points for webbing |
| Feeding | Roaches or crickets every 7β10 days for juveniles; less often as adults or when premolt starts |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Cormocephalus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A widespread genus (Australia, South Africa and beyond) β smaller and more varied than the giant Scolopendra, with many species leaning toward arid setups. Care is per-species, but the universal centipede rules hold: fast, a venomous bite, an escape artist β never handle. Adults reach about 3β5 inches.
| Temp | 72β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (under 30%) (often arid-leaning; per species) |
| Setup | Terrestrial centipede (often arid-leaning) |
| Substrate | Soil/sand mix with a humid retreat; locked lid; depth per species |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Cormocephalus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: A widespread genus (Australia, South Africa and beyond) β smaller and more varied than the giant Scolopendra, with many species leaning toward arid setups. Care is per-species, but the universal centipede rules hold: fast, a venomous bite, an escape artist β never handle. Adults reach about 3β5 inches.
| Temperature | 72β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (under 30%) (often arid-leaning; per species) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial centipede (often arid-leaning) |
| Substrate | Soil/sand mix with a humid retreat; locked lid; depth per species |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Cyriocosmus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: True dwarf tarantulas from northern South America β C. elegans is the classic, with a heart-shaped marking on the abdomen. Tiny (about 2β2.5 inches across), skittish, harmless, and prone to burrowing extensively. The only challenges are the small size at rehouse and not letting them dry out.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (moist substrate; ventilated) |
| Setup | Dwarf terrestrial / burrower (moist) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco mix, deep enough for a burrow |
| Feeding | Tiny prey β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Cyriocosmus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: True dwarf tarantulas from northern South America β C. elegans is the classic, with a heart-shaped marking on the abdomen. Tiny (about 2β2.5 inches across), skittish, harmless, and prone to burrowing extensively. The only challenges are the small size at rehouse and not letting them dry out.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (moist substrate; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Dwarf terrestrial / burrower (moist) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco mix, deep enough for a burrow |
| Feeding | Tiny prey β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Cyriopagopus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The cobalt blue (C. lividus, ex-Haplopelma lividum) and the Asian earth tigers (C. schmidti, C. hainanus) β gorgeous, fast, defensive obligate fossorials that live their lives in deep burrows. Some of the most peptide-rich tarantula venom in the hobby (especially C. hainanus); even a scratch from one is reported to hurt for days. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist substrate that holds tunnels) |
| Setup | Deep fossorial (moist) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco/topsoil, 8β10 in, that holds a burrow; cork-bark starter burrow |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks; prey at the burrow mouth |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Cyriopagopus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The cobalt blue (C. lividus, ex-Haplopelma lividum) and the Asian earth tigers (C. schmidti, C. hainanus) β gorgeous, fast, defensive obligate fossorials that live their lives in deep burrows. Some of the most peptide-rich tarantula venom in the hobby (especially C. hainanus); even a scratch from one is reported to hurt for days. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist substrate that holds tunnels) |
| Setup Type | Deep fossorial (moist) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco/topsoil, 8β10 in, that holds a burrow; cork-bark starter burrow |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks; prey at the burrow mouth |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Damon spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A dramatic but non-venomous amblypygid that needs vertical cork, humidity, and gentle no-grab maintenance. The danger is broken legs and bad molts, not aggression.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Humid vertical amblypygid setup |
| Substrate | Moist substrate with tall cork slabs and leaf litter |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly or every 10 days |
| Handling | Not recommended; harmless but delicate |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Damon spp.
Keeper Snapshot: A dramatic but non-venomous amblypygid that needs vertical cork, humidity, and gentle no-grab maintenance. The danger is broken legs and bad molts, not aggression.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Humid vertical amblypygid setup |
| Substrate | Moist substrate with tall cork slabs and leaf litter |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly or every 10 days |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended; harmless but delicate |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Davus pentaloris
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small colorful terrestrial that grows quickly and works well in compact setups β adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Dwarf terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Moderately moist soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Davus pentaloris
Keeper Snapshot: A small colorful terrestrial that grows quickly and works well in compact setups β adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Dwarf terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Moderately moist soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Leiurus quinquestriatus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The classic Deathstalker, Leiurus quinquestriatus, is the straw-yellow North African Leiurus that made the name famous. The catch: older Deathstalker labels got used pretty loosely, and some of those animals are now split out as other Leiurus species. For Big Z purposes, that does not soften the rules. Serious buthid, display only, no handling.
| Temp | Warm arid gradient, roughly 82-92 F with a cooler retreat; do not bake tiny sling containers |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low / arid; brief controlled hydration only, then let surfaces dry (under 30%) |
| Setup | Arid terrestrial / crevice scorpion |
| Substrate | Dry, compactable sand/soil mix with a tight hide, stone edge, or starter burrow |
| Feeding | Tiny crickets or roach nymphs sized to the instar; remove uneaten prey |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Leiurus quinquestriatus
Keeper Snapshot: The classic Deathstalker, Leiurus quinquestriatus, is the straw-yellow North African Leiurus that made the name famous. The catch: older Deathstalker labels got used pretty loosely, and some of those animals are now split out as other Leiurus species. For Big Z purposes, that does not soften the rules. Serious buthid, display only, no handling.
| Temperature | Warm arid gradient, roughly 82-92 F with a cooler retreat; do not bake tiny sling containers |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low / arid; brief controlled hydration only, then let surfaces dry (under 30%) |
| Setup Type | Arid terrestrial / crevice scorpion |
| Substrate | Dry, compactable sand/soil mix with a tight hide, stone edge, or starter burrow |
| Feeding | Tiny crickets or roach nymphs sized to the instar; remove uneaten prey |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 - Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Diplocentrus spitzeri
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A stocky semi-arid scorpion that loves to dig deep, then hide under bark β hardy and room-temperature friendly, adults about 3β4 inches with mild venom.
| Temp | 70β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Semi-arid burrowing terrestrial (deep substrate + bark hides) |
| Substrate | Deep (3β4 in+) packable coco/sand/peat or topsoil mix to burrow in β dry on top, faintly moist down low; plus bark slabs to hide under |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Diplocentrus spitzeri
Keeper Snapshot: A stocky semi-arid scorpion that loves to dig deep, then hide under bark β hardy and room-temperature friendly, adults about 3β4 inches with mild venom.
| Temperature | 70β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arid burrowing terrestrial (deep substrate + bark hides) |
| Substrate | Deep (3β4 in+) packable coco/sand/peat or topsoil mix to burrow in β dry on top, faintly moist down low; plus bark slabs to hide under |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Ephebopus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The skeleton tarantulas β fossorial members of the pinktoe subfamily that turned into something else entirely: a defensive, fast burrower that's the most 'Old World-like' New World tarantula, and the only tarantula with urticating hairs on its pedipalps (it kicks them off the palps at threats). E. cyanognathus has blue chelicerae. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (moist substrate that holds a burrow) |
| Setup | Fossorial (deep burrow) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco mix, 6 in+, that holds a burrow; cork-bark burrow entrance |
| Feeding | Medium-fast feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Ephebopus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The skeleton tarantulas β fossorial members of the pinktoe subfamily that turned into something else entirely: a defensive, fast burrower that's the most 'Old World-like' New World tarantula, and the only tarantula with urticating hairs on its pedipalps (it kicks them off the palps at threats). E. cyanognathus has blue chelicerae. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (moist substrate that holds a burrow) |
| Setup Type | Fossorial (deep burrow) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco mix, 6 in+, that holds a burrow; cork-bark burrow entrance |
| Feeding | Medium-fast feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Ethmostigmus sp. Borneo Blue
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A stunning tropical centipede that needs high security and moisture control β adults reach about 6β8 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep moist substrate |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Ethmostigmus sp. Borneo Blue
Keeper Snapshot: A stunning tropical centipede that needs high security and moisture control β adults reach about 6β8 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep moist substrate |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Eupalaestrus larae
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A gentle terrestrial species best kept simple, dry-to-moderate, and low-stress.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Weekly for juveniles; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Eupalaestrus larae
Keeper Snapshot: A gentle terrestrial species best kept simple, dry-to-moderate, and low-stress.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Weekly for juveniles; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Grammostola pulchra
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A calm, slow-growing terrestrial tarantula and one of the best premium beginner species. Adults reach about 6β7 inches across, and females are famously long-lived β 20β30+ years (males roughly 5β8).
| Temp | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate-High (70-85%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix, 2β4 in for juveniles/adults |
| Feeding | Slings weekly; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Grammostola pulchra
Keeper Snapshot: A calm, slow-growing terrestrial tarantula and one of the best premium beginner species. Adults reach about 6β7 inches across, and females are famously long-lived β 20β30+ years (males roughly 5β8).
| Temperature | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate-High (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix, 2β4 in for juveniles/adults |
| Feeding | Slings weekly; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Grammostola pulchripes
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A big, steady beginner classic with a calm reputation, good size, and simple terrestrial care. Hardy, slow-to-moderate growing, and better treated as a look-don't-drop display animal.
| Temp | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Dry-to-moderate terrestrial tarantula |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, with a hide and water dish |
| Feeding | Juveniles weekly; adults every 2β3 weeks or by abdomen condition |
| Handling | Not recommended; usually calm but still fragile |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Grammostola pulchripes
Keeper Snapshot: A big, steady beginner classic with a calm reputation, good size, and simple terrestrial care. Hardy, slow-to-moderate growing, and better treated as a look-don't-drop display animal.
| Temperature | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Dry-to-moderate terrestrial tarantula |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, with a hide and water dish |
| Feeding | Juveniles weekly; adults every 2β3 weeks or by abdomen condition |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended; usually calm but still fragile |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Grammostola rosea RCF
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The original beginner tarantula β a dusty rose-and-grey terrestrial from the Atacama-edge scrub of Chile, and this is the Red Color Form, the rosier-red morph. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across; females are very long-lived (routinely 20+ and reportedly 30+ years with good care), males roughly 4β6. Care is genuinely minimal β dry substrate, a water dish, room temperature β the catch is patience: rosies are famous for months-long fasts and an on-again/off-again feeding response, and an individual's temperament can flip between molts.
| Temp | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Dry terrestrial |
| Substrate | Bone-dry soil/coco mix, 2β4 in, with a cork hide |
| Feeding | Slings weekly; adults just a few prey items a month β long fasts are normal |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Grammostola rosea RCF
Keeper Snapshot: The original beginner tarantula β a dusty rose-and-grey terrestrial from the Atacama-edge scrub of Chile, and this is the Red Color Form, the rosier-red morph. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across; females are very long-lived (routinely 20+ and reportedly 30+ years with good care), males roughly 4β6. Care is genuinely minimal β dry substrate, a water dish, room temperature β the catch is patience: rosies are famous for months-long fasts and an on-again/off-again feeding response, and an individual's temperament can flip between molts.
| Temperature | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Dry terrestrial |
| Substrate | Bone-dry soil/coco mix, 2β4 in, with a cork hide |
| Feeding | Slings weekly; adults just a few prey items a month β long fasts are normal |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Teruelius grandidieri
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A glossy Madagascan buthid (Teruelius grandidieri, recently moved out of the genus Grosphus): warm, mostly dry care, light cork bark and shallow scrapes rather than deep burrows, and strict containment.
| Temp | 75β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (~40β50%) |
| Setup | Dry forest/scrubland buthid β bark-scraper, not a deep burrower |
| Substrate | ~50/50 coco or topsoil + sand, kept dry; light cork bark and secure flat stones to scrape behind and hide under |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Teruelius grandidieri
Keeper Snapshot: A glossy Madagascan buthid (Teruelius grandidieri, recently moved out of the genus Grosphus): warm, mostly dry care, light cork bark and shallow scrapes rather than deep burrows, and strict containment.
| Temperature | 75β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (~40β50%) |
| Setup Type | Dry forest/scrubland buthid β bark-scraper, not a deep burrower |
| Substrate | ~50/50 coco or topsoil + sand, kept dry; light cork bark and secure flat stones to scrape behind and hide under |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hadogenes paucidens
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A flattened rock-crevice scorpion: dry, slow-growing, extraordinarily long-lived, and best kept singly except for deliberate, closely supervised breeding introductions.
| Temp | 77β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (~50%, with a humid pocket behind the rocks) |
| Setup | Ventilated flat rock-crevice setup (stacked cork or slate) |
| Substrate | Shallow β sand, coco, or a rocky/sandy mix; the stacked flat cork/rock crevices matter, not the depth |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hadogenes paucidens
Keeper Snapshot: A flattened rock-crevice scorpion: dry, slow-growing, extraordinarily long-lived, and best kept singly except for deliberate, closely supervised breeding introductions.
| Temperature | 77β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (~50%, with a humid pocket behind the rocks) |
| Setup Type | Ventilated flat rock-crevice setup (stacked cork or slate) |
| Substrate | Shallow β sand, coco, or a rocky/sandy mix; the stacked flat cork/rock crevices matter, not the depth |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hadrurus arizonensis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large desert burrower that needs dry conditions and deep diggable substrate β adults reach about 5β6 inches, North America's largest scorpion.
| Temp | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) |
| Setup | Desert fossorial/terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep dry sand/soil mix |
| Feeding | Crickets or roaches weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hadrurus arizonensis
Keeper Snapshot: A large desert burrower that needs dry conditions and deep diggable substrate β adults reach about 5β6 inches, North America's largest scorpion.
| Temperature | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) |
| Setup Type | Desert fossorial/terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep dry sand/soil mix |
| Feeding | Crickets or roaches weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hapalopus formosus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A tiny, high-contrast dwarf tarantula that needs small prey and good moisture control β adults reach only about 2.5β3.5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Dwarf terrestrial/fossorial |
| Substrate | Moderately moist substrate with starter burrow |
| Feeding | Tiny prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hapalopus formosus
Keeper Snapshot: A tiny, high-contrast dwarf tarantula that needs small prey and good moisture control β adults reach only about 2.5β3.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Dwarf terrestrial/fossorial |
| Substrate | Moderately moist substrate with starter burrow |
| Feeding | Tiny prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Harpactira spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The South African baboons β most famously H. pulchripes, the golden-bodied, blue-legged 'calmest of the baboons'. Faster and more defensive than any New World species, but among the easier and more even-tempered Old Worlds. Adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry, with a water dish) |
| Setup | Terrestrial / fossorial (dry) |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix with a starter burrow; occasional moist corner |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Harpactira spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The South African baboons β most famously H. pulchripes, the golden-bodied, blue-legged 'calmest of the baboons'. Faster and more defensive than any New World species, but among the easier and more even-tempered Old Worlds. Adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry, with a water dish) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial / fossorial (dry) |
| Substrate | Dry soil/coco mix with a starter burrow; occasional moist corner |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Heterometrus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Large humid forest scorpions with strong claws and defensive behavior β sizes vary widely by species (H. swammerdami is a giant, body to ~9 in).
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Tropical burrowing terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep moist substrate |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Heterometrus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Large humid forest scorpions with strong claws and defensive behavior β sizes vary widely by species (H. swammerdami is a giant, body to ~9 in).
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Tropical burrowing terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep moist substrate |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Heteroscodra maculata
Big Z's Quick Verdict: One of the two most medically significant tarantulas in the hobby (the other is Stromatopelma calceatum) β the Togo starburst: peptide-rich venom, documented hospital-visit bites, and a tarantula that will deliberately attack rather than retreat. Erratic, fast, and absolutely a no-contact, experienced-Old-World-keepers-only animal. Adults reach about 5 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (slightly moist substrate; heavy webbing) |
| Setup | Arboreal / semi-arboreal (heavy web) |
| Substrate | Slightly moist soil/coco mix; deep-substrate option; heavy webbing / dirt-curtain decor |
| Feeding | Medium-fast feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Heteroscodra maculata
Keeper Snapshot: One of the two most medically significant tarantulas in the hobby (the other is Stromatopelma calceatum) β the Togo starburst: peptide-rich venom, documented hospital-visit bites, and a tarantula that will deliberately attack rather than retreat. Erratic, fast, and absolutely a no-contact, experienced-Old-World-keepers-only animal. Adults reach about 5 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (slightly moist substrate; heavy webbing) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal / semi-arboreal (heavy web) |
| Substrate | Slightly moist soil/coco mix; deep-substrate option; heavy webbing / dirt-curtain decor |
| Feeding | Medium-fast feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hogna carolinensis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large active ground hunter that needs floor space, hides, and dry-to-moderate conditions.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial active hunter |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hogna carolinensis
Keeper Snapshot: A large active ground hunter that needs floor space, hides, and dry-to-moderate conditions.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial active hunter |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Holothele spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small, taxonomically-fluid New World genus β H. longipes is the one you'll see. Care, size and temperament are essentially Neoholothele incei: a tiny, fast, web-and-burrow dwarf, sometimes attempted as a small group but safest as a single animal.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (lightly moist substrate; ventilated) |
| Setup | Dwarf terrestrial / burrower |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix with substrate depth and web anchor points |
| Feeding | Small prey β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Holothele spp.
Keeper Snapshot: A small, taxonomically-fluid New World genus β H. longipes is the one you'll see. Care, size and temperament are essentially Neoholothele incei: a tiny, fast, web-and-burrow dwarf, sometimes attempted as a small group but safest as a single animal.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (lightly moist substrate; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Dwarf terrestrial / burrower |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix with substrate depth and web anchor points |
| Feeding | Small prey β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hottentotta caboverdensis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small parthenogenic buthid that is display-worthy but not beginner-safe β adults only about 2.5 inches.
| Temp | 78β88Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (55β65%) |
| Setup | Dry/rocky buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry soil/sand mix with bark or rock hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hottentotta caboverdensis
Keeper Snapshot: A small parthenogenic buthid that is display-worthy but not beginner-safe β adults only about 2.5 inches.
| Temperature | 78β88Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (55β65%) |
| Setup Type | Dry/rocky buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry soil/sand mix with bark or rock hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hottentotta flavidulus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A vivid buthid scorpion with serious venom risk and fast defensive behavior β a small species, adults about 2.5β3 inches.
| Temp | 80β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Dry buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with hide |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hottentotta flavidulus
Keeper Snapshot: A vivid buthid scorpion with serious venom risk and fast defensive behavior β a small species, adults about 2.5β3 inches.
| Temperature | 80β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Dry buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with hide |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hottentotta tamulus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small, extremely serious buthid with medically significant venom β adults only about 2.5β3.5 inches. Hardy and not temperature-fussy; the venom, not the husbandry, is what makes it advanced. Advanced keepers only.
| Temp | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Dry buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand or sand/soil mix; flat rock piles or stacked cork as hides; optional barely-moist lower layer, not surface misting |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hottentotta tamulus
Keeper Snapshot: A small, extremely serious buthid with medically significant venom β adults only about 2.5β3.5 inches. Hardy and not temperature-fussy; the venom, not the husbandry, is what makes it advanced. Advanced keepers only.
| Temperature | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Dry buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand or sand/soil mix; flat rock piles or stacked cork as hides; optional barely-moist lower layer, not surface misting |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hyleoglomeris cf. Bomba
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A tiny, adorable communal pill millipede with sensitive humidity needs and best kept in a stable small group or culture.
| Temp | 72β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Humid communal pill millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate + moss |
| Feeding | Decaying leaves, wood, tiny veggie pieces, calcium |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Hyleoglomeris cf. Bomba
Keeper Snapshot: A tiny, adorable communal pill millipede with sensitive humidity needs and best kept in a stable small group or culture.
| Temperature | 72β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Humid communal pill millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate + moss |
| Feeding | Decaying leaves, wood, tiny veggie pieces, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Hysterocrates gigas
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large, powerful West African fossorial tarantula that wants deep humid substrate, a secure burrow, and keeper respect. Impressive, but not a first Old World spider.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Large humid fossorial Old World tarantula |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with cork-started burrow |
| Feeding | Weekly for growing spiders; adults every 2β3 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Hysterocrates gigas
Keeper Snapshot: A large, powerful West African fossorial tarantula that wants deep humid substrate, a secure burrow, and keeper respect. Impressive, but not a first Old World spider.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Large humid fossorial Old World tarantula |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with cork-started burrow |
| Feeding | Weekly for growing spiders; adults every 2β3 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Idiothele mira
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The blue-foot baboon β a true trapdoor tarantula: it builds a hinged silk-and-soil door over its burrow and ambushes from behind it. Stunning electric-blue tarsi, skittish (retreats rather than fights), Old World speed. The catch is the substrate: it has to be firm enough to hold a trapdoor. Adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (dry-to-slightly-moist firm clay/peat mix) |
| Setup | Fossorial trapdoor (firm substrate) |
| Substrate | Firm clay/peat mix, 6β8 in, that holds a trapdoor; give a starter hole |
| Feeding | Medium feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Idiothele mira
Keeper Snapshot: The blue-foot baboon β a true trapdoor tarantula: it builds a hinged silk-and-soil door over its burrow and ambushes from behind it. Stunning electric-blue tarsi, skittish (retreats rather than fights), Old World speed. The catch is the substrate: it has to be firm enough to hold a trapdoor. Adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (dry-to-slightly-moist firm clay/peat mix) |
| Setup Type | Fossorial trapdoor (firm substrate) |
| Substrate | Firm clay/peat mix, 6β8 in, that holds a trapdoor; give a starter hole |
| Feeding | Medium feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Kukulcania arizonica
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A hardy crevice-web spider that likes bark cracks, tubes, and dry shelter.
| Temp | 70β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Crevice/web spider |
| Substrate | Dry substrate + vertical bark/tube hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Kukulcania arizonica
Keeper Snapshot: A hardy crevice-web spider that likes bark cracks, tubes, and dry shelter.
| Temperature | 70β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Crevice/web spider |
| Substrate | Dry substrate + vertical bark/tube hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Lasiocyano sazimai
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A stunning blue terrestrial that appreciates ventilation and a slightly more natural moisture gradient.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial/opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Dry-to-lightly-moist soil mix with hide |
| Feeding | Slings 2Γ/week; juveniles every 7β10 days; adults every 2β3 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Lasiocyano sazimai
Keeper Snapshot: A stunning blue terrestrial that appreciates ventilation and a slightly more natural moisture gradient.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial/opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Dry-to-lightly-moist soil mix with hide |
| Feeding | Slings 2Γ/week; juveniles every 7β10 days; adults every 2β3 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Lasiodora spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The 'LP' β Lasiodora parahybana, the Brazilian salmon pink, one of the largest and most popular tarantulas in the hobby: 8β10 inches across, a fast grower, and a 'garbage-disposal' feeding response. Bold and hardy, but the urticating hairs are more irritating than a Brachypelma's and a fall can rupture that big abdomen.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Large terrestrial |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, on the moist side of medium; slightly damper for slings |
| Feeding | Voracious β slings 2β3Γ/week, subadults weekly, adults a half-dozen crickets every 2 weeks; don't power-feed into obesity |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Lasiodora spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The 'LP' β Lasiodora parahybana, the Brazilian salmon pink, one of the largest and most popular tarantulas in the hobby: 8β10 inches across, a fast grower, and a 'garbage-disposal' feeding response. Bold and hardy, but the urticating hairs are more irritating than a Brachypelma's and a fall can rupture that big abdomen.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Large terrestrial |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, on the moist side of medium; slightly damper for slings |
| Feeding | Voracious β slings 2β3Γ/week, subadults weekly, adults a half-dozen crickets every 2 weeks; don't power-feed into obesity |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Leiurus jordanensis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The dark-bodied Leiurus from Jordan β same genus, and the same league, as the infamous Deathstalker (L. quinquestriatus). One of the most medically significant scorpions in the hobby: a small species (adults about 3β3.5 inches) with venom that punches far above its size. Expert containment only.
| Temp | 82β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Hot arid buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with tight hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Leiurus jordanensis
Keeper Snapshot: The dark-bodied Leiurus from Jordan β same genus, and the same league, as the infamous Deathstalker (L. quinquestriatus). One of the most medically significant scorpions in the hobby: a small species (adults about 3β3.5 inches) with venom that punches far above its size. Expert containment only.
| Temperature | 82β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Hot arid buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with tight hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Leptogoniulus sorornus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small, communal, prolific millipede ideal for humid bioactive-style setups.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Small tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Leptogoniulus sorornus
Keeper Snapshot: A small, communal, prolific millipede ideal for humid bioactive-style setups.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Small tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Lychas spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Small tropical Asian buthids β L. mucronatus is the common one: semi-arboreal bark dwellers, communal-capable, with moderate venom. A 'hot-keeper-lite' bark scorpion. Adults reach about 2β2.5 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid; ventilated; dry perches available) |
| Setup | Tropical Asian buthid (semi-arboreal) |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix; vertical cork bark for perching; ventilated |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Lychas spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Small tropical Asian buthids β L. mucronatus is the common one: semi-arboreal bark dwellers, communal-capable, with moderate venom. A 'hot-keeper-lite' bark scorpion. Adults reach about 2β2.5 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid; ventilated; dry perches available) |
| Setup Type | Tropical Asian buthid (semi-arboreal) |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix; vertical cork bark for perching; ventilated |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Mastigoproctus giganteus group
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A hardy, impressive arachnid with no venomous sting, strong pedipalps, and a vinegar-like defensive spray. Great display animal when kept humid with burrowing depth.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Humid terrestrial burrowing uropygid |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with cork hide and leaf litter |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly to biweekly |
| Handling | Okay with care, but avoid stress and acid spray |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Mastigoproctus giganteus group
Keeper Snapshot: A hardy, impressive arachnid with no venomous sting, strong pedipalps, and a vinegar-like defensive spray. Great display animal when kept humid with burrowing depth.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Humid terrestrial burrowing uropygid |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with cork hide and leaf litter |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly to biweekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1β2 β Kid Safe / Beginner |
| Handling | Okay with care, but avoid stress and acid spray |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Monocentropus balfouri
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A heavy-webbing Old World species famous for possible communal keeping β adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Semi-arid heavy-web terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry soil mix with web anchor points |
| Feeding | Weekly; group feed carefully if communal |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Monocentropus balfouri
Keeper Snapshot: A heavy-webbing Old World species famous for possible communal keeping β adults reach about 4β5 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arid heavy-web terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry soil mix with web anchor points |
| Feeding | Weekly; group feed carefully if communal |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Narceus americanus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A hardy native millipede that likes moist leaf litter and deep edible substrate β adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temp | 68β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Burrowing communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Hardwood leaves, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Narceus americanus
Keeper Snapshot: A hardy native millipede that likes moist leaf litter and deep edible substrate β adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temperature | 68β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Burrowing communal millipede |
| Substrate | Deep leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Hardwood leaves, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Nebo whitei
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A big, heavy-bodied scorpion from the mild, monsoon-touched mountains of Dhofar, Oman β adults about 3.5β5 inches. Wants a roomy semi-arid floor it can dig into, moderate warmth (not baked), and stable retreats. Mild venom.
| Temp | 72β84Β°F (gentle gradient; cooler at night) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (~50β60%) |
| Setup | Semi-arid terrestrial burrower (needs floor space) |
| Substrate | Deep sand/soil/clay mix it can dig into β drier surface, slightly more humid lower layers |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Nebo whitei
Keeper Snapshot: A big, heavy-bodied scorpion from the mild, monsoon-touched mountains of Dhofar, Oman β adults about 3.5β5 inches. Wants a roomy semi-arid floor it can dig into, moderate warmth (not baked), and stable retreats. Mild venom.
| Temperature | 72β84Β°F (gentle gradient; cooler at night) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (~50β60%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arid terrestrial burrower (needs floor space) |
| Substrate | Deep sand/soil/clay mix it can dig into β drier surface, slightly more humid lower layers |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Neoholothele incei
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The Trinidad olive β a bold little dwarf (about 2.5β3 inches across) that builds heavy web tunnels and comes in an olive and a gold form. One of only two tarantulas the hobby keeps communally (after Monocentropus balfouri). Fast, harmless, and a great display dwarf.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (lightly moist substrate; heavy webbing) |
| Setup | Dwarf terrestrial (heavy web) |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix with substrate depth and heavy web anchor points |
| Feeding | Strong feeder for its size β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Neoholothele incei
Keeper Snapshot: The Trinidad olive β a bold little dwarf (about 2.5β3 inches across) that builds heavy web tunnels and comes in an olive and a gold form. One of only two tarantulas the hobby keeps communally (after Monocentropus balfouri). Fast, harmless, and a great display dwarf.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (lightly moist substrate; heavy webbing) |
| Setup Type | Dwarf terrestrial (heavy web) |
| Substrate | Lightly moist soil/coco mix with substrate depth and heavy web anchor points |
| Feeding | Strong feeder for its size β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Nhandu spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Big, fast-growing Brazilian terrestrials β striking, hardy, and more defensive than an Acanthoscurria: quick to threat-pose, repeat-strike and flick hairs (N. coloratovillosus especially). The care is easy; the temperament is why this sits at intermediate. Adults reach about 6.5β7.5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, partly moist; N. chromatus burrows more |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings 2Γ/week, juveniles weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Nhandu spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Big, fast-growing Brazilian terrestrials β striking, hardy, and more defensive than an Acanthoscurria: quick to threat-pose, repeat-strike and flick hairs (N. coloratovillosus especially). The care is easy; the temperament is why this sits at intermediate. Adults reach about 6.5β7.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, partly moist; N. chromatus burrows more |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings 2Γ/week, juveniles weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Opistophthalmus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Southern African burrowing scorpions β O. glabrifrons (shiny burrowing scorpion), O. carinatus and relatives: stocky, defensive, will sting, with mild-to-moderate venom. They want a deep, packable clay-sand substrate they can excavate. Adults reach about 4β5 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry; deep substrate that holds a burrow) |
| Setup | Arid burrowing terrestrial (deep clay-sand) |
| Substrate | Deep clay-sand substrate, 6β8 in, packed enough to hold a burrow; a starter hole |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Opistophthalmus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Southern African burrowing scorpions β O. glabrifrons (shiny burrowing scorpion), O. carinatus and relatives: stocky, defensive, will sting, with mild-to-moderate venom. They want a deep, packable clay-sand substrate they can excavate. Adults reach about 4β5 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) (dry; deep substrate that holds a burrow) |
| Setup Type | Arid burrowing terrestrial (deep clay-sand) |
| Substrate | Deep clay-sand substrate, 6β8 in, packed enough to hold a burrow; a starter hole |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Ornithoctonus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Thai and Southeast Asian obligate fossorials β O. aureotibialis (Thai golden fringe) and relatives. Care, behaviour and warnings are essentially the cobalt-blue template: deep moist burrow, fast, defensive, never handle. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist substrate that holds tunnels) |
| Setup | Deep fossorial (moist) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco/topsoil, 8β10 in, that holds a burrow; cork-bark starter burrow |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks; prey at the burrow mouth |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Ornithoctonus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Thai and Southeast Asian obligate fossorials β O. aureotibialis (Thai golden fringe) and relatives. Care, behaviour and warnings are essentially the cobalt-blue template: deep moist burrow, fast, defensive, never handle. Adults reach about 4.5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist substrate that holds tunnels) |
| Setup Type | Deep fossorial (moist) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco/topsoil, 8β10 in, that holds a burrow; cork-bark starter burrow |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks; prey at the burrow mouth |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Orthoporus ornatus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The US Southwest's big native communal millipede β a semi-arid species, so kept noticeably drier than tropical millipedes: dry substrate with one moist corner, hardwood leaf litter, and cuttlebone. Adults reach about 4β5 inches.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (drier than most millipedes; one moist corner) |
| Setup | Semi-arid communal millipede (drier than most) |
| Substrate | Mostly dry soil with hardwood leaf litter; one moist corner; not a deep wet bioactive |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, cuttlebone, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Orthoporus ornatus
Keeper Snapshot: The US Southwest's big native communal millipede β a semi-arid species, so kept noticeably drier than tropical millipedes: dry substrate with one moist corner, hardwood leaf litter, and cuttlebone. Adults reach about 4β5 inches.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (drier than most millipedes; one moist corner) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arid communal millipede (drier than most) |
| Substrate | Mostly dry soil with hardwood leaf litter; one moist corner; not a deep wet bioactive |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, cuttlebone, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Otostigmus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Small pantropical centipedes β O. scaber, O. politus and relatives: humid tropical care, moderate venom, a smaller cage than a giant Scolopendra needs. Still fast, still a venomous bite, still an escape artist β never handle. Adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid; ventilated) |
| Setup | Tropical centipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco mix with a humid retreat; locked lid |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Otostigmus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Small pantropical centipedes β O. scaber, O. politus and relatives: humid tropical care, moderate venom, a smaller cage than a giant Scolopendra needs. Still fast, still a venomous bite, still an escape artist β never handle. Adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (humid; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Tropical centipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Moist soil/coco mix with a humid retreat; locked lid |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Pamphobeteus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The big Andean-foothill 'birdeaters' β fast-growing (sometimes outpacing an LP in the first year), bold but skittish rather than defensive, and the mature males bloom into stunning iridescent purple before their final molt. Slightly more humidity-dependent and cooler-running than the lowland giants. Adults reach about 7.5β9 inches across.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F (tolerates down to ~65Β°F) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (moist-leaning, not wet) |
| Setup | Large terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, moist-leaning; opportunistic burrowers |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings 2Γ/week, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Pamphobeteus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The big Andean-foothill 'birdeaters' β fast-growing (sometimes outpacing an LP in the first year), bold but skittish rather than defensive, and the mature males bloom into stunning iridescent purple before their final molt. Slightly more humidity-dependent and cooler-running than the lowland giants. Adults reach about 7.5β9 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F (tolerates down to ~65Β°F) |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (moist-leaning, not wet) |
| Setup Type | Large terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in, moist-leaning; opportunistic burrowers |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings 2Γ/week, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Pandinurus exitialis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large northeast-African savanna and hill scorpion: secure deep burrow space, a drier surface over a lightly humid lower layer, plus a tight rock or cork retreat.
| Temp | 78β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Hot semi-arid burrowing terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep soil/sand mix with humid lower layer |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Pandinurus exitialis
Keeper Snapshot: A large northeast-African savanna and hill scorpion: secure deep burrow space, a drier surface over a lightly humid lower layer, plus a tight rock or cork retreat.
| Temperature | 78β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Hot semi-arid burrowing terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep soil/sand mix with humid lower layer |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Do not handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Pandinus imperator
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The classic large tropical scorpion: humid, deep substrate, strong claws, generally slower moving β and at about 6β8 inches, one of the largest scorpions in the hobby.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Tropical burrowing terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with leaf litter |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly; adults may eat less |
| Handling | Not recommended; calm does not mean safe to handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Pandinus imperator
Keeper Snapshot: The classic large tropical scorpion: humid, deep substrate, strong claws, generally slower moving β and at about 6β8 inches, one of the largest scorpions in the hobby.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Tropical burrowing terrestrial |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix with leaf litter |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly; adults may eat less |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended; calm does not mean safe to handle |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Parabuthus maximus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large African buthid with serious venom risk that can spray venom β at about 4β5 inches, one of the bigger buthids. Advanced display animal only.
| Temp | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Arid terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with secure hide |
| Feeding | Appropriate roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Parabuthus maximus
Keeper Snapshot: A large African buthid with serious venom risk that can spray venom β at about 4β5 inches, one of the bigger buthids. Advanced display animal only.
| Temperature | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Arid terrestrial |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with secure hide |
| Feeding | Appropriate roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Paravaejovis spinigerus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A hardy Arizona desert scorpion that does best dry with burrowing options β a small species, adults only about 2β2.5 inches.
| Temp | 75β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup | Desert terrestrial/burrowing |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with starter burrow |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Paravaejovis spinigerus
Keeper Snapshot: A hardy Arizona desert scorpion that does best dry with burrowing options β a small species, adults only about 2β2.5 inches.
| Temperature | 75β90Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Low (30-60%) |
| Setup Type | Desert terrestrial/burrowing |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with starter burrow |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Pelinobius muticus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A legendary old-world burrower: huge, defensive, slow-growing, and best kept as a tunnel-and-ambush display animal. The setup is simple; the safety protocol is not optional.
| Temp | 74β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Old World deep fossorial tarantula |
| Substrate | Very deep packable soil/coco mix with a pre-started burrow |
| Feeding | Juveniles weekly; adults every 2β4 weeks depending on body condition |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Pelinobius muticus
Keeper Snapshot: A legendary old-world burrower: huge, defensive, slow-growing, and best kept as a tunnel-and-ambush display animal. The setup is simple; the safety protocol is not optional.
| Temperature | 74β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Old World deep fossorial tarantula |
| Substrate | Very deep packable soil/coco mix with a pre-started burrow |
| Feeding | Juveniles weekly; adults every 2β4 weeks depending on body condition |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Pelmatojulus ligulatus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large communal West African millipede with vivid blue legs against a reddish-brown body β eats heavily, so it wants a deep, generous, leaf-and-rotted-hardwood substrate it can really work through. Adults reach about 6β8 inches.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup | Large tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Very deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist throughout |
| Feeding | Heavy on decaying hardwood leaves and rotted wood; calcium; veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Pelmatojulus ligulatus
Keeper Snapshot: A large communal West African millipede with vivid blue legs against a reddish-brown body β eats heavily, so it wants a deep, generous, leaf-and-rotted-hardwood substrate it can really work through. Adults reach about 6β8 inches.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Large tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Very deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist throughout |
| Feeding | Heavy on decaying hardwood leaves and rotted wood; calcium; veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Peucetia viridans
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A bright, fast plant-dwelling ambush spider that needs vertical twigs and tiny prey.
| Temp | 72β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Arboreal plant/twig setup |
| Substrate | Light substrate + twigs/foliage |
| Feeding | Small flying/soft-bodied prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Peucetia viridans
Keeper Snapshot: A bright, fast plant-dwelling ambush spider that needs vertical twigs and tiny prey.
| Temperature | 72β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal plant/twig setup |
| Substrate | Light substrate + twigs/foliage |
| Feeding | Small flying/soft-bodied prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Phidippus regius
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A charismatic visual hunter that needs light, climbing space, and careful hydration.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Small arboreal jumper setup |
| Substrate | Minimal substrate + climbing decor |
| Feeding | Tiny flies/roaches/crickets based on size |
| Handling | Careful/optional only for experienced keepers |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Phidippus regius
Keeper Snapshot: A charismatic visual hunter that needs light, climbing space, and careful hydration.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Small arboreal jumper setup |
| Substrate | Minimal substrate + climbing decor |
| Feeding | Tiny flies/roaches/crickets based on size |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Careful/optional only for experienced keepers |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Phormictopus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The fast-growing Caribbean giants β the most high-strung of the New World 'big' terrestrials: more skittish and defensive than a Pamphobeteus, with a hair-trigger feeding response and a real willingness to bite. Slings rocket up even faster than Pamphobeteus. Adults reach about 7β8 inches across.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (80%+) (moist for slings/juveniles, dry-leaning with a humid corner as adults) |
| Setup | Large terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in; moist for slings, drier with a damp corner for adults |
| Feeding | Hair-trigger feeder β slings 2β3Γ/week, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Phormictopus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The fast-growing Caribbean giants β the most high-strung of the New World 'big' terrestrials: more skittish and defensive than a Pamphobeteus, with a hair-trigger feeding response and a real willingness to bite. Slings rocket up even faster than Pamphobeteus. Adults reach about 7β8 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (80%+) (moist for slings/juveniles, dry-leaning with a humid corner as adults) |
| Setup Type | Large terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix, 4β6 in; moist for slings, drier with a damp corner for adults |
| Feeding | Hair-trigger feeder β slings 2β3Γ/week, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Phrynus marginemaculatus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A strange, harmless-looking-but-fast amblypygid that needs vertical bark, humidity, and can be kept in carefully managed groups with matching sizes and enough cork.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Vertical cork amblypygid setup |
| Substrate | Moist substrate + tall cork |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Phrynus marginemaculatus
Keeper Snapshot: A strange, harmless-looking-but-fast amblypygid that needs vertical bark, humidity, and can be kept in carefully managed groups with matching sizes and enough cork.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Vertical cork amblypygid setup |
| Substrate | Moist substrate + tall cork |
| Feeding | Small roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Poecilotheria spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Beautiful arboreal Old World tarantulas with speed, potent venom, and rare expert-only communal attempts. Advanced keepers only. Adults reach about 5β8 inches across and grow fast.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Tall arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Poecilotheria spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Beautiful arboreal Old World tarantulas with speed, potent venom, and rare expert-only communal attempts. Advanced keepers only. Adults reach about 5β8 inches across and grow fast.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Tall arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Porcellio laevis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A prolific, bold colony-forming cleanup-crew and feeder isopod that likes ventilation, calcium, leaf litter, and extra protein. Easy, but too hungry to ignore in tiny soft-bodied animal setups.
| Temp | 68β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate gradient (40-70%) |
| Setup | Ventilated isopod culture / cleanup crew |
| Substrate | Organic soil mix with leaf litter, rotting wood, moss corner, and calcium |
| Feeding | Leaf litter always; vegetables and protein weekly in small amounts |
| Handling | Fine for brief gentle handling; wash hands after |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Porcellio laevis
Keeper Snapshot: A prolific, bold colony-forming cleanup-crew and feeder isopod that likes ventilation, calcium, leaf litter, and extra protein. Easy, but too hungry to ignore in tiny soft-bodied animal setups.
| Temperature | 68β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate gradient (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Ventilated isopod culture / cleanup crew |
| Substrate | Organic soil mix with leaf litter, rotting wood, moss corner, and calcium |
| Feeding | Leaf litter always; vegetables and protein weekly in small amounts |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Fine for brief gentle handling; wash hands after |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Psalmopoeus cambridgei
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A fast-growing New World arboreal with Old World attitude and serious speed β adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Semi-arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Weekly; strong feeder |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Psalmopoeus cambridgei
Keeper Snapshot: A fast-growing New World arboreal with Old World attitude and serious speed β adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Weekly; strong feeder |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Psalmopoeus irminia
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A gorgeous, fast arboreal display tarantula with a strong feeding response β adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Weekly; strong feeder |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Psalmopoeus irminia
Keeper Snapshot: A gorgeous, fast arboreal display tarantula with a strong feeding response β adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Weekly; strong feeder |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Psalmopoeus victori
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A striking arboreal Psalmopoeus with speed, attitude, and beautiful mature coloration β adults reach about 5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate-High (70-85%) |
| Setup | Arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Slings 2Γ/week; juveniles weekly; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Psalmopoeus victori
Keeper Snapshot: A striking arboreal Psalmopoeus with speed, attitude, and beautiful mature coloration β adults reach about 5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate-High (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal |
| Substrate | Lightly moist substrate + vertical cork |
| Feeding | Slings 2Γ/week; juveniles weekly; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Psytalla horrida
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A bold predatory insect with a painful bite, strong feeding response, and a real communal side when groups are fed heavily and given space.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Ventilated vertical/terrestrial insect setup |
| Substrate | Dry-to-lightly-moist substrate + bark/egg crate |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Psytalla horrida
Keeper Snapshot: A bold predatory insect with a painful bite, strong feeding response, and a real communal side when groups are fed heavily and given space.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Ventilated vertical/terrestrial insect setup |
| Substrate | Dry-to-lightly-moist substrate + bark/egg crate |
| Feeding | Roaches/crickets weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Pterinochilus murinus group
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A fast, defensive, heavy-webbing Old World group for experienced keepers β the 'Orange Bitey Thing'. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across and grow fast.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Dry webbing terrestrial/semi-arboreal |
| Substrate | Dry substrate + web anchors |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Pterinochilus murinus group
Keeper Snapshot: A fast, defensive, heavy-webbing Old World group for experienced keepers β the 'Orange Bitey Thing'. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across and grow fast.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Dry webbing terrestrial/semi-arboreal |
| Substrate | Dry substrate + web anchors |
| Feeding | Weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Rhagodes sp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: An extremely fast arid predator that needs dry substrate and serious containment.
| Temp | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) |
| Setup | Hot dry solifuge setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with hide |
| Feeding | Appropriately sized live prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Rhagodes sp.
Keeper Snapshot: An extremely fast arid predator that needs dry substrate and serious containment.
| Temperature | 80β95Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) |
| Setup Type | Hot dry solifuge setup |
| Substrate | Dry sand/soil mix with hide |
| Feeding | Appropriately sized live prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Rhopalomeris carnifex
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A colorful communal pill millipede that needs stable humidity, gentle airflow, and a calm colony-style setup.
| Temp | 72β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Humid communal pill millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate with moss |
| Feeding | Decaying leaves, lichen/wood, soft veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Rhopalomeris carnifex
Keeper Snapshot: A colorful communal pill millipede that needs stable humidity, gentle airflow, and a calm colony-style setup.
| Temperature | 72β78Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Humid communal pill millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate with moss |
| Feeding | Decaying leaves, lichen/wood, soft veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Rhysida longipes
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A smaller fast old-world centipede that still requires no-handle containment β adults reach about 3β5 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Fossorial/terrestrial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep lightly moist substrate |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Rhysida longipes
Keeper Snapshot: A smaller fast old-world centipede that still requires no-handle containment β adults reach about 3β5 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Fossorial/terrestrial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep lightly moist substrate |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Scolopendra cingulata
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A hardy Mediterranean centipede that prefers a drier moisture gradient than tropical giants β adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Semi-arid fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep soil/sand mix with humid retreat |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Scolopendra cingulata
Keeper Snapshot: A hardy Mediterranean centipede that prefers a drier moisture gradient than tropical giants β adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arid fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep soil/sand mix with humid retreat |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Scolopendra dehaani
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A large, fast, defensive centipede for advanced keepers only β adults reach 8β9 inches and more, one of the genus giants.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Prey weekly or biweekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Scolopendra dehaani
Keeper Snapshot: A large, fast, defensive centipede for advanced keepers only β adults reach 8β9 inches and more, one of the genus giants.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Prey weekly or biweekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Scolopendra multidens
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A colorful old-world centipede with advanced-only speed and bite risk β adults reach about 6β8 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Semi-tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep lightly moist substrate |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Scolopendra multidens
Keeper Snapshot: A colorful old-world centipede with advanced-only speed and bite risk β adults reach about 6β8 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-tropical fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep lightly moist substrate |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Scolopendra polymorpha
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A fast, defensive Southwestern Scolopendra with dry-leaning care and a painful bite risk. Strictly display-only with locked-lid, tool-only maintenance.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Dry desert terrestrial centipede setup |
| Substrate | Sand/soil mix with a dry surface and one lightly damp retreat |
| Feeding | Appropriately sized roaches or crickets every 7β14 days |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Scolopendra polymorpha
Keeper Snapshot: A fast, defensive Southwestern Scolopendra with dry-leaning care and a painful bite risk. Strictly display-only with locked-lid, tool-only maintenance.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Dry desert terrestrial centipede setup |
| Substrate | Sand/soil mix with a dry surface and one lightly damp retreat |
| Feeding | Appropriately sized roaches or crickets every 7β14 days |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Scolopendropsis bahiensis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A Brazilian Caatinga centipede notable for having more leg pairs than the usual Scolopendra (21β23 instead of the standard 21). Rarer in the hobby; care is a dry-leaning fossorial setup with a humid retreat. Like all big centipedes: fast, a painful venomous bite, an escape artist β never handle. Adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (dry-leaning with a humid retreat) |
| Setup | Semi-arid fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep soil/sand mix with a humid retreat; locked lid |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly or biweekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Scolopendropsis bahiensis
Keeper Snapshot: A Brazilian Caatinga centipede notable for having more leg pairs than the usual Scolopendra (21β23 instead of the standard 21). Rarer in the hobby; care is a dry-leaning fossorial setup with a humid retreat. Like all big centipedes: fast, a painful venomous bite, an escape artist β never handle. Adults reach about 4β6 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (dry-leaning with a humid retreat) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arid fossorial centipede |
| Substrate | Deep soil/sand mix with a humid retreat; locked lid |
| Feeding | Appropriate prey weekly or biweekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3β4 β Intermediate / Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Smeringurus mesaensis
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The Mojave dune scorpion β a fast, pale, active surface hunter rather than a deep burrower; it patrols the sand at night. Arid setup, mild venom, a genuinely fun desert display species. Adults reach about 2.5β3 inches.
| Temp | 78β95Β°F (day), cooler at night |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) (dry sand) |
| Setup | Desert sand (active surface hunter) |
| Substrate | Deep dry sand; a flat hide or shallow scrape rather than a deep burrow |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Smeringurus mesaensis
Keeper Snapshot: The Mojave dune scorpion β a fast, pale, active surface hunter rather than a deep burrower; it patrols the sand at night. Arid setup, mild venom, a genuinely fun desert display species. Adults reach about 2.5β3 inches.
| Temperature | 78β95Β°F (day), cooler at night |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Very Low (under 30%) (dry sand) |
| Setup Type | Desert sand (active surface hunter) |
| Substrate | Deep dry sand; a flat hide or shallow scrape rather than a deep burrow |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Spirobollelus immigrans
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A tiny tropical millipede best kept as a moist communal group.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Small tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate with moss |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Spirobollelus immigrans
Keeper Snapshot: A tiny tropical millipede best kept as a moist communal group.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Small tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate with moss |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Spirobolus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Smaller temperate communal millipedes β mostly US Spirobolus types: straightforward leaf-litter detritivores, happy at house temperatures, not after tropical heat. Adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temp | 65β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist leaf litter; ventilated) |
| Setup | Temperate communal millipede (moist leaf litter) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate; moist lower layer, drier surface ok |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Spirobolus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Smaller temperate communal millipedes β mostly US Spirobolus types: straightforward leaf-litter detritivores, happy at house temperatures, not after tropical heat. Adults reach about 3β4 inches.
| Temperature | 65β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist leaf litter; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Temperate communal millipede (moist leaf litter) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate; moist lower layer, drier surface ok |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Spirostreptus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The African olive millipedes β Spirostreptus servatius and various Tanzanian species: large, hardy, communal humid-tropical millipedes, essentially the same care as the African giant. Adults reach about 5β7 inches.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup | Tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist throughout |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Spirostreptus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The African olive millipedes β Spirostreptus servatius and various Tanzanian species: large, hardy, communal humid-tropical millipedes, essentially the same care as the African giant. Adults reach about 5β7 inches.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist throughout |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Stromatopelma calceatum
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Widely called the most defensive tarantula in the hobby, with venom routinely ranked at or above the Togo starburst's β the featherleg baboon: a West African arboreal that keepers have watched deliberately jump toward them to bite. Severe pain, muscle cramping, fever-like symptoms, nausea, intense swelling on record. No-contact, experienced-Old-World-keepers-only. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (slightly moist substrate; heavy webbing) |
| Setup | Arboreal / semi-arboreal (heavy web) |
| Substrate | Slightly moist soil/coco mix; heavy webbing decor; vertical cork |
| Feeding | Medium feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Stromatopelma calceatum
Keeper Snapshot: Widely called the most defensive tarantula in the hobby, with venom routinely ranked at or above the Togo starburst's β the featherleg baboon: a West African arboreal that keepers have watched deliberately jump toward them to bite. Severe pain, muscle cramping, fever-like symptoms, nausea, intense swelling on record. No-contact, experienced-Old-World-keepers-only. Adults reach about 5β6 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (slightly moist substrate; heavy webbing) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal / semi-arboreal (heavy web) |
| Substrate | Slightly moist soil/coco mix; heavy webbing decor; vertical cork |
| Feeding | Medium feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Tapinauchenius spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The 'teleport' tarantulas β purple tree spiders from northern Amazonia: blisteringly fast, no urticating hairs, but flighty rather than aggressive (they bolt into a web tube, they don't usually bite). Very fast growers. The only real challenge is the speed at rehouse. Adults reach about 4.5β5.5 inches across.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup | Semi-arboreal (arboreal as adults) |
| Substrate | Moist substrate, 2β3 in for slings; drier with a damp corner for adults |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Tapinauchenius spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The 'teleport' tarantulas β purple tree spiders from northern Amazonia: blisteringly fast, no urticating hairs, but flighty rather than aggressive (they bolt into a web tube, they don't usually bite). Very fast growers. The only real challenge is the speed at rehouse. Adults reach about 4.5β5.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) |
| Setup Type | Semi-arboreal (arboreal as adults) |
| Substrate | Moist substrate, 2β3 in for slings; drier with a damp corner for adults |
| Feeding | Strong feeder β slings weekly, adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Theraphosa blondi
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A giant advanced terrestrial/fossorial tarantula requiring space, humidity, and serious respect β 9β11 inches across (body to ~5 in), among the largest spiders on earth.
| Temp | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Large humid terrestrial/fossorial |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Large prey weekly or as body condition requires |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Theraphosa blondi
Keeper Snapshot: A giant advanced terrestrial/fossorial tarantula requiring space, humidity, and serious respect β 9β11 inches across (body to ~5 in), among the largest spiders on earth.
| Temperature | 75β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Large humid terrestrial/fossorial |
| Substrate | Deep moist soil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Large prey weekly or as body condition requires |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 4 β Advanced |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Tigrosa georgicola
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A smaller bold wolf spider with similar care to Hogna but better suited to compact setups.
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial active hunter |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Tigrosa georgicola
Keeper Snapshot: A smaller bold wolf spider with similar care to Hogna but better suited to compact setups.
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial active hunter |
| Substrate | Soil/coco mix with hide |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Tityus spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Among the most medically significant scorpions on earth β T. serrulatus, the Brazilian yellow, kills children in Brazil every year, is parthenogenetic, and is illegal or unkeepable in much of the world. A hot-keeper-only animal with no margin for error: documented in medical literature, antivenom unavailable in most countries. Adults reach about 2.5β3.5 inches.
| Temp | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (dry substrate with a humid retreat) |
| Setup | Tropical/semi-arid buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry soil/sand mix with a tight hide; one small moisture point |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Tityus spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Among the most medically significant scorpions on earth β T. serrulatus, the Brazilian yellow, kills children in Brazil every year, is parthenogenetic, and is illegal or unkeepable in much of the world. A hot-keeper-only animal with no margin for error: documented in medical literature, antivenom unavailable in most countries. Adults reach about 2.5β3.5 inches.
| Temperature | 75β85Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) (dry substrate with a humid retreat) |
| Setup Type | Tropical/semi-arid buthid setup |
| Substrate | Dry soil/sand mix with a tight hide; one small moisture point |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 5 β Extreme (Medical Significance) |
| Handling | NEVER |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Tliltocatl spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The genus the curly hair belongs to (split from Brachypelma in 2019) β placid, hardy, dry-leaning New World terrestrials that grow noticeably faster than true Brachypelma. Adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across; females are long-lived (15β25 years).
| Temp | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup | Terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Coco/peat/topsoil, 4β6 in; one half kept lightly moist for T. albopilosus & T. kahlenbergi, drier for T. vagans |
| Feeding | Slings and juveniles weekly; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Tliltocatl spp.
Keeper Snapshot: The genus the curly hair belongs to (split from Brachypelma in 2019) β placid, hardy, dry-leaning New World terrestrials that grow noticeably faster than true Brachypelma. Adults reach about 5β6.5 inches across; females are long-lived (15β25 years).
| Temperature | 72β82Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | LowβModerate (40-70%) |
| Setup Type | Terrestrial / opportunistic burrower |
| Substrate | Coco/peat/topsoil, 4β6 in; one half kept lightly moist for T. albopilosus & T. kahlenbergi, drier for T. vagans |
| Feeding | Slings and juveniles weekly; adults every 1β2 weeks |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2 β Beginner |
| Handling | Discouraged |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Tonkinbolus dollfusi
Big Z's Quick Verdict: The Vietnamese red dragon is a striking communal tropical millipede with dark body and red-banded segments. Standard humid-tropical millipede care: deep edible leaf-litter substrate, calcium, moisture with airflow. Adults reach about 4β5 inches.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup | Tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist lower layer |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Tonkinbolus dollfusi
Keeper Snapshot: The Vietnamese red dragon is a striking communal tropical millipede with dark body and red-banded segments. Standard humid-tropical millipede care: deep edible leaf-litter substrate, calcium, moisture with airflow. Adults reach about 4β5 inches.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) (moist; ventilated) |
| Setup Type | Tropical communal millipede (humid) |
| Substrate | Deep hardwood-leaf/rotted-wood substrate with organic soil; moist lower layer |
| Feeding | Decaying hardwood leaves, rotted wood, calcium, veggie supplements; no citrus |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 2β3 β Beginner / Intermediate |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Trigoniulus corallinus
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A small bright tropical millipede that thrives in moist communal setups β adults reach about 2.5β3.5 inches.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup | Tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
Trigoniulus corallinus
Keeper Snapshot: A small bright tropical millipede that thrives in moist communal setups β adults reach about 2.5β3.5 inches.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | High (80%+) |
| Setup Type | Tropical communal millipede |
| Substrate | Moist leaf/wood substrate |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, veggies, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Gentle only |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
White Isopods
Big Z's Quick Verdict: A cleanup-crew colony starter that needs moisture, food, and calcium to actually establish.
| Temp | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup | Standalone bioactive bin or seeded cleanup crew |
| Substrate | Moist organic substrate + leaf litter |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, fish flakes/veg sparingly, calcium |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: Yes
White Isopods
Keeper Snapshot: A cleanup-crew colony starter that needs moisture, food, and calcium to actually establish.
| Temperature | 70β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | ModerateβHigh (70-85%) |
| Setup Type | Standalone bioactive bin or seeded cleanup crew |
| Substrate | Moist organic substrate + leaf litter |
| Feeding | Leaf litter, fish flakes/veg sparingly, calcium |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 1 β Kid Safe |
| Handling | Minimal |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Ybyrapora spp.
Big Z's Quick Verdict: Small web-loving pinktoes from Brazil's Atlantic forest (split from Avicularia in 2017) β docile, fast, and treated like Avicularia/Caribena: vertical, dry substrate, lots of ventilation, water dish. A touch more moisture-tolerant than Caribena. Adults reach about 4.5β5.5 inches across.
| Temp | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (dry substrate + water dish; occasional web droplets) |
| Setup | Arboreal with heavy ventilation |
| Substrate | Dry substrate, 1β2 in |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly; strong sling eaters |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
Current Big Z's catalog: No
Ybyrapora spp.
Keeper Snapshot: Small web-loving pinktoes from Brazil's Atlantic forest (split from Avicularia in 2017) β docile, fast, and treated like Avicularia/Caribena: vertical, dry substrate, lots of ventilation, water dish. A touch more moisture-tolerant than Caribena. Adults reach about 4.5β5.5 inches across.
| Temperature | 72β80Β°F |
|---|---|
| Humidity | Moderate (60-80%) (dry substrate + water dish; occasional web droplets) |
| Setup Type | Arboreal with heavy ventilation |
| Substrate | Dry substrate, 1β2 in |
| Feeding | Small prey weekly; strong sling eaters |
| Care Difficulty | Spice 3 β Intermediate |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Humidity zones: Very Low under 30% - Low 30-60% - Low-Moderate 40-70% - Moderate 60-80% - Moderate-High 70-85% - High 80%+ - Very High 90%+
