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Westside Tarantulas

Poecilotheria rufilata - Red Slate Ornamental tarantula - For Sale

Poecilotheria rufilata - Red Slate Ornamental tarantula - For Sale

$795.00
$795.00
Sale Sold out
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Sex and Size

Red Slate Ornamental Tarantula (Poecilotheria rufilata) 

The Red Slate Ornamental (Poecilotheria rufilata) is the largest species in the Poecilotheria genus, reaching an astounding 9–10 inches in diagonal leg span (DLS)—a truly massive arboreal giant. Unlike any other Poecilotheria, this species stands out with its breathtaking green coloration, making it one of the most visually unique and highly sought-after ornamental tarantulas in the hobby. Native to the forests of India, Poecilotheria rufilata displays a mesmerizing mix of olive-green tones, intricate black markings, and vibrant yellow and red highlights, creating a camouflage masterpiece. Their long, slender legs are adorned with bold chevron patterns, and their underside features striking flashes of deep purple and yellow—a stunning contrast that adds to their exotic appeal. Despite their impressive size and fast movements, Poecilotheria rufilata is one of the more reclusive members of its genus, often choosing to hide rather than display defensive behavior. However, due to their speed and potent venom, they are best suited for experienced keepers.

Individuals from a communal for Sale

These communal specimens  are 3 to 3.5 inches DLS and will be randomly selected from my thriving communal setup. These well-started juveniles have been feeding aggressively on medium-sized crickets and are growing fast! Given the massive size of adult specimens, expect them to become true giants within the next few years. If you’re looking for the ultimate display tarantula, the largest arboreal species, and the only green Poecilotheria, this is your chance to own giant green titan. With their sheer visual appeal, these Poecilotheria rufilata won’t last long!

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WESTSIDE TARANTULAS

Species Profile

Everything You Need To Know At A Glance.
Experience Level
Intermediate
Temperament
Shy, Reclusive, Fast & Extremely Food-Responsive
Type
Arboreal / Old World / Giant Species / Communal
DLS
Adult Size
9–10” DLS
Country of Origin
India
Life Span
♀15–20+ Years

Care & Husbandry Guide

🏠 Enclosure & Substrate

Plan around their massive adult size. Use a tall, spacious arboreal enclosure with a large vertical cork slab, additional branches and multiple anchor points. Provide several inches of moisture-retentive substrate and strong cross ventilation. A mature female needs enough room to fully stretch out vertically while still having a deep, secure retreat behind the cork.

🌡️ Temperature & Humidity

 I recommend approximately 68–76°F for P. rufilata. This is a species I would keep cooler than many other Poecilotheria, reflecting its montane Western Ghats habitat. Maintain moderate moisture in the lower substrate with excellent cross ventilation, allowing the surface to partially dry between waterings. Avoid hot, stagnant conditions.

 🍽️ Feeding & Water 

Red Slates are excellent feeders and grow quickly when young. Feed juveniles appropriately sized crickets or roaches around once weekly, adjusting larger specimens according to body condition. Adults can take surprisingly large prey but don’t need to be power-fed. Always provide a large clean water dish and occasionally hydrate one section of the lower substrate rather than soaking the entire enclosure.

🕷️ Species-Specific Care 

P. rufilata is the largest Poecilotheria species, with exceptional females capable of reaching around 9–10” DLS. Despite that enormous size, they tend to be more shy and retreat-oriented than P. ornata. Give them a tall enclosure with oversized vertical cork bark and a dark retreat where they can completely disappear when they want to. This species comes from the cooler, wetter forests of the southern Western Ghats, so access to moisture is important, but strong ventilation is equally important.P. rufilata is the largest Poecilotheria species, with exceptional females capable of reaching around 9–10” DLS. Despite that enormous size, they tend to be more shy and retreat-oriented than P. ornata. Give them a tall enclosure with oversized vertical cork bark and a dark retreat where they can completely disappear when they want to. This species comes from the cooler, wetter forests of the southern Western Ghats, so access to moisture is important, but strong ventilation is equally important.