Selenobrachys philippinus spiderling • 3/4″ (Philippine tangerine)

Description

The main tarantula genus represented in the Philippines is Selenobrachys (ex. Orphnaecus). Each island seems to have its own species. Selenobrachys philippinus is endemic to the island of Negros. Orange distinguishes it at a glance from other hobby Selenobrachys. S. philippinus is medium size, with females growing to about 4 inches. Observers in the Philippines report seeing them in and around cracks in rocks and boulders. As with Old World tarantulas in general, S. philippinus is fast and defensive.

Keep the spiderling on slightly dampened substrate with only enough ventilation restriction to allow humidity to build to a target of 75-90% RH. You can achieve this range without a meter: Slightly dampened substrate is cool to touch. It may barely clump when squeezed tightly, but water cannot be wrung from it. It’s surprising how little water one needs. We mix 10 mL water with 100 mL of dry substrate (1:10 vol:vol). If your home has typical room humidity (50% RH), an enclosure of a half-liter volume needs only 5-10, 1/16″ holes in the sides or lid.

Room temperature (68-72F) is adequate. If summers in your area are warmer, 72-80F is ok. Your pet will eat more and grow faster. Give attention to ventilation because substrate dries out faster as temperatures rise. Best not to allow direct sunlight to bear on your enclosure. It may overheat. Condensation will form when shade takes over, creating wetness where you don’t want it (all over the surface).

As your pet grows you’ll be able to relax the parameters mentioned above. Larger specimens have more drought tolerance. Drier substrate reduces microbial growth and so in general aim for no more enclosure moisture than needed. Water dishes can be helpful, affording a margin of error.

Photos: 1-adult color (stock image); 2-adult male (stock image)

Care highlights:

• slightly dampened substrate for spiderlings
• elevated humidity (75-90% RH) +/- water dish support
• room temperature (68-72F) up to 80F
• juveniles and adults have more drought tolerance
• consider forest litter and a hide for enrichment