Phormingochilus hatihati

Phormingochilus hatihati is a tree-dwelling tarantula native to the lush montane forests of Sumatra, Indonesia. The habitat here is hot, humid and dense—think tropical paradise, but with far more eight-legged residents than your typical travel guide might mention. In the wild, they make their homes in the hollows of trees or among thick undergrowth, with an abundance of foliage and ambient moisture. Seasonal rains are common, so they’re right at home in consistently muggy conditions, but have to weather cooler mountain temperatures as well. These beautiful Sumatran spiders are truly the island's hidden gems—albeit ones you don't want dropping on your head during a jungle stroll!

When fully grown, Phormingochilus hatihati reaches an impressive 15–18cm diagonal leg span—certainly not the sort you’ll lose down the back of the sofa. Females are typically larger, heavier-bodied and longer lived, while males are leggier with more delicate builds and mature a bit faster. Growth from sling to leggy monster can be rather striking, so don’t be surprised if that unassuming spiderling turns into a display-worthy beauty before you know it.

Firmly arboreal, Phormingochilus hatihati spends most of its life off the ground, constructing webbed retreats high in the foliage. In captivity, these tarantulas love to climb, web up corners, and create silken tube hideouts positioned above ground level. You’ll find them scaling cork bark and lurking in web tunnels, occasionally popping out for a dramatic feeding session or a spot of redecorating. They rarely dig or burrow, preferring to stay elevated, which not only keeps them safe from ground-dwelling predators but also gives us hobbyists a cracking view!

Females can live upwards of 10–12 years in good care, making them a fairly long-term commitment—just think of all the potential for bonding! Males, however, tend to be short-lived party guests, typically making it only 3–4 years before heading off to that grand spooder enclosure in the sky. Regular maintenance and proper husbandry help both sexes reach their full potential, so you’ll get ample opportunity to enjoy your Sumatran stunner.

Phormingochilus hatihati grows at a medium clip—faster than your average terrestrial but not exactly lightning in a webbed bottle. Spiderlings put on size quickly when well fed and warm, while adults slow their pace considerably between moults. Diet, temperature and humidity all play their parts: the warmer and better fed, the quicker the legspan creep. They’re not instant giants, but patience is rewarded with a show-stopper.

Not for the faint-hearted! Phormingochilus hatihati is feisty, fast, and rarely shy about making their opinions known. While not actively looking to joust with your forceps, they're more than willing to put on a threat pose or bolt with alarming speed if disturbed. Most keepers find them more reclusive than antagonistic, but their lightning reflexes and watchful nature mean this isn't a docile display pet. Best admired from the other side of the glass with a cup of tea in hand—just in case.

Aim for a toasty 23–26°C in your enclosure—just enough to keep your spooder happy, but not so scorching they start packing their bags for Iceland. Night-time dips to around 20°C are fine, as they’re used to mountain breezes back home. A reliable thermostat and an occasional check on the thermometer will do wonders; avoid direct heat mats under the enclosure unless you’re itching for a crispy critter (we don’t recommend it). Ambient room heating is generally preferred for stability, keeping sudden swings and stress at bay.

This species loves a humid hug, so shoot for 70–80% relative humidity. Achieve this with regular light misting (targeting webbing and decor, not the spider directly) and a decent-sized, clean water dish. Excellent cross-ventilation is key—stagnant, stuffy air breeds trouble far faster than a night without supper. Allow the top layer of substrate to dry out between spritzes to avoid mould and mites. With a balanced routine, your spider can breathe easy—and so can you.

Visibility is part art, part luck! Juveniles and adults alike web elaborately and often stay snug in their tube hides by day, venturing out more after dark. Pleasantly unpredictable, some individuals loiter out in the open while others remain strictly behind silk curtains. Feeding time often tempts them into view, and their stunning colours and web artistry make them a proper display specimen when they oblige. Just don’t expect them to put on a show for guests on cue—they’re divas, not dancers.

Webbing is this species’ artistic outlet. Expect a home that would make even the tidiest spider-mum proud: thick silk curtains, sprawling hammocks and intricate tube retreats laced through cork bark or decor. Their web tunnels offer security and make for great feeding platforms—prey foolish enough to wander close are swiftly seized. The webbing style is not as thick as some Avics or Psalmopoeus, but the complexity is captivating. Sit back and enjoy the creative renovation!

Slings and juveniles will happily take on mini crickets, aptly-sized roaches or flightless fruit flies every 4–7 days. As they grow, step up to larger crickets, dubia roaches, locusts or even the occasional mealworm. Adults thrive on a hearty insect meal every 7–10 days, but keep portions sensible—these aren’t sumo wrestlers! A good rule of thumb: offer prey a bit smaller than the spider’s body length. Don’t leave uneaten food in overnight or overfeed; leftover bugs can stress or even injure your tarantula. Their feeding response is brisk and predatory—watch your fingers! Growth slows with age, so slings will moult like clockwork while adults are content to lounge between meals. Always remove uneaten food, especially before a moult, as your spider will be out of action and extra vulnerable.

Arboreal all the way! Opt for a tall enclosure (at least 30cm high for adults) with secure, well-ventilated sides—cross-ventilation is a must. Provide plenty of vertical climbing opportunities: cork bark tubes, branches, and leafy faux plants are ideal. The substrate can be shallow (5–8cm) as they don’t burrow, but use something moisture-retentive like coco fibre or topsoil to support humidity. A sizeable water dish should be present at all times. Don’t skimp on hiding places—this species feels safest in a snug, elevated tube retreat. Make sure all decor is firmly anchored to prevent crushing or collapse during sprints. Avoid excessively wet substrate by letting the surface dry between sprays. Finally, invest in reliable enrichment: changing up the décor now and then keeps your hatihati feeling fancy (and you, entertained).

Definitely best suited to experienced keepers or bold intermediates looking to level up. Their speed, strong startle reflex, and high humidity requirements mean this isn’t an option for absolute beginners (or the faint-hearted). However, with patience, preparation, and healthy respect, anyone with a bit of prior arboreal experience will find this Sumatran showpiece an addictive challenge. For the novice just starting out—maybe try something less likely to test your reflexes first.

Phormingochilus hatihati is the definition of 'stunning but sassy'. Not only are they visually striking, with metallic sheens and elegant build, but they’re endlessly fascinating to observe—when they grace you with their presence. They’re not the easiest in the hobby, but their bold webbing, feeding antics and occasional dramatic walkabouts turn everyday husbandry into an event. Their husbandry requires care and confidence, particularly around speed, humidity and escape-proofing, but experienced keepers will find them utterly captivating. Approach with respect, patience and a steady hand, and your Sumatran sky-spider will be a centrepiece you’ll never tire of (even if you mostly see their legs sticking out of webbing). A true collector’s display, not a cuddly companion.