Skip to main content
  • Wysyłamy na cały świat!
  • Darmowy kurier w Polsce od 40 zł z kodem "free".
  • Sklep tworzony przez prawdziwych pasjonatów.
  • Zapewniamy najlepsze warunki gwarancji w branży.
  • Gwarantujemy bezpieczny transport w każdą pogodę.
  • Pełne, profesjonalne wsparcie w hodowli.
English
Products in the cart: 0. See details

Heteroscodra maculata

Go to Product feedback
Price €4.69
without VAT

Wybierz wariant produktu:

Individual variants may differ in price

Select L2-L3 - Out of stock L3-L4 - Out of stock Female 2.5DC - Out of stock
Availability:
sold out
szt.
Ask about the product
Share
Shipping from €2.33 - InPost Courier (Poland)

Description

Heteroscodra maculata – The Tree Ghost of Togo

In the heart of the tropical forests of West Africa hides a creature of almost ethereal appearance – Heteroscodra maculata. Described as the "skeletal tree ghost," this species mesmerizes with a contrast of chalky white and frosty gray, broken by an intricate black pattern. Its beauty, often compared to a "Starburst" or marble, makes it one of the most desired spiders in terrarium keeping. However, it must be remembered that behind this beauty lies the uncompromising nature of an Old World tarantula.

WARNING: Species exclusively for advanced keepers. H. maculata possesses potent, medically significant venom, moves with extreme speed, and is characterized by a highly defensive temperament. It requires the highest level of experience and responsibility.

Why is Heteroscodra maculata an Exceptional Choice for the Expert?

  • Hypnotic Appearance: Unusual, high-contrast coloration resembling marble or a starburst. Perfect camouflage against tree bark. Juveniles undergo a fascinating transformation from dark olive to the white of adulthood.
  • Extreme Speed: Observing its lightning-fast reactions and movements ("teleportation") is fascinating but requires utmost caution.
  • Arboreal Lifestyle (with a Twist): Although adults are typically arboreal, juveniles show strong burrowing tendencies, posing an interesting husbandry challenge.
  • Old World Temperament: Owning this species is a testament to mastery in the care of demanding tarantulas.

Temperament and Safety – Essential Knowledge

The key to safe keeping is understanding its defensive nature. This is a species intended exclusively for advanced experts.

  • Venom: Potent and medically significant. A bite is very painful and can cause severe systemic symptoms, including severe muscle cramps lasting for many days.
  • Speed and Defensiveness: This is an extremely fast spider. Its primary strategy is flight, but when cornered, it will unhesitatingly assume a threat posture and attack. It can jump, curl into a ball, and flee instantly after falling.
  • No Urticating Hairs: As an Old World tarantula, it does not possess urticating hairs. Its only weapon is its bite.
  • Handling: Handling this species is categorically discouraged. All activities within the terrarium must be performed using long, at least 30-centimeter tweezers, in a secure environment, with utmost caution.

Keeping in a Terrarium – A Complete Guide

Vertical Fortress

For an adult specimen, a vertically oriented terrarium (min. 20x20x30 cm) with excellent ventilation and an absolutely secure enclosure is essential.

Understanding the change in behavior is crucial: juvenile specimens (L1-L5) require deep substrate (min. 1/3 of the container's height) to allow them to burrow. Adults need less substrate, but vertical decor elements (cork tubes, bark) are essential to serve as a nest-building site.

Temperature and Humidity – Dynamic Balance

  • Temperature: The optimal range is 22-29°C.
  • Humidity: Should be 65-80%. The best method is to maintain dynamic humidity – moistening part of the substrate and allowing it to periodically dry out, while providing constant access to a water dish. "Swampy" conditions must be avoided. Good ventilation is crucial.

Heteroscodra maculata at a Glance

Scientific Name Heteroscodra maculata
Common Name (Togo Starburst)
Origin West and Central Africa
Lifestyle Arboreal (juveniles semi-fossorial)
Venom Strength Potent, medically significant
Temperament Defensive, skittish, extremely fast
Urticating Hairs Absent
Lifespan Females 12-15+ years, males 3-4 years
Target Size up to 15 cm leg span
Difficulty Level Exclusively for advanced experts

Heteroscodra maculata is a species for the connoisseur who understands and respects the wild nature enclosed in a terrarium. For the properly prepared enthusiast, success in caring for the "tree ghost" is an extremely rewarding and gratifying experience.

Reviews

Number of ratings: 25
Rate and review