The Poecilotheria striata, commonly known as the Mysore Ornamental, is one of the largest and most visually impressive members of the legendary Poecilotheria genus. Native to the forests of southern India, this stunning arboreal tarantula features the genus's signature geometric patterning — intricate grey, black, and yellow designs that span its entire body, with vivid yellow markings on the underside of its legs that flash dramatically during threat displays.
At Field Life Pets Division, the Mysore Ornamental is one of our most prized species. This guide covers everything you need to know to keep your P. striata healthy, thriving, and living its best life.
⇣ Download Free Care Sheet PDF
Species Overview
- Scientific Name: Poecilotheria striata
- Common Name: Mysore Ornamental
- Origin: Southern India (Karnataka region)
- Type: Old World Arboreal
- Adult Size: 8–9 inches (females), 6–7 inches (males)
- Lifespan: Females up to 12+ years, males 3–4 years
- Care Level: Advanced
- Temperament: Fast and defensive — not a handling species
- Venom: Old World — medically significant; always treat bites seriously
- Urticating Hairs: No
🛒 Shop Poecilotheria striata — Available Now at FLPD
Is the Mysore Ornamental Right for You?
The P. striata is an advanced keeper's species. If you are new to tarantulas, we strongly recommend building experience with beginner-friendly species first — like the Tliltocatl albopilosus (Curly Hair) — before taking on any Poecilotheria.
That said, for experienced hobbyists, the Mysore Ornamental is an absolutely extraordinary animal. It is fast, powerful, and drop-dead gorgeous — a species that commands respect and rewards responsible, knowledgeable keeping with years of enjoyment.
Enclosure Setup
Size
Adult P. striata require a large, tall arboreal enclosure. As a general rule, the enclosure should be at least 3x the spider's leg span in height, and approximately 2x the leg span in width and depth. For a fully grown female, this typically means an enclosure of at least 18" (H) x 12" (W) x 12" (D).
Slings and juveniles can be kept in smaller deli cups or acrylic enclosures with appropriate anchor points, upgrading in size as they grow.
Ventilation
Cross-ventilation is critical for P. striata. This means ventilation on multiple sides of the enclosure — not just the top. Stagnant air is a leading cause of health issues in arboreal Poecilotheria species. Ensure good airflow throughout the enclosure at all times.
Anchor Points
Provide multiple cork bark pieces, hollow logs, or cork tubes anchored vertically or at angles. The P. striata will select its preferred retreat and build a dense silk web around it — often transforming the upper portion of the enclosure into a beautiful, intricate web structure.
Substrate
Use 3–4 inches of coco fiber, peat moss, or a mix of both on the enclosure floor. While P. striata primarily lives arboreally, substrate depth helps maintain a slight ambient humidity and provides a landing cushion in case of falls during molting.
Temperature & Humidity
Temperature
Maintain temperatures between 75–82°F (24–28°C). P. striata is native to tropical southern India and thrives in warm conditions. Avoid temperatures below 70°F for extended periods, as this can slow metabolism and cause health issues.
Room temperature is generally sufficient in most homes. If your home runs cool, a low-wattage heat mat placed on the side of the enclosure (never the bottom) can help maintain appropriate temperatures.
Humidity
Target ambient humidity of 65–75%. Lightly mist one side of the enclosure every 1–2 weeks, allowing it to dry out between mistings. Always ensure the enclosure has good airflow — high humidity combined with poor ventilation is dangerous for this species.
Provide a small, shallow water dish in the lower portion of the enclosure. While arboreal species often don't drink visibly, a water source helps maintain appropriate ambient humidity and is important for overall health.
Feeding
What to Feed
P. striata are active, enthusiastic feeders. Offer appropriately sized prey — the rule of thumb is prey no larger than the spider's abdomen. Excellent options include:
- Dubia roaches — our top recommendation (available at Field Life Pets Division)
- Crickets
- Mealworms (as an occasional supplement)
- Superworms for larger adults
Feeding Frequency
- Slings: Every 5–7 days
- Juveniles: Every 7 days
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Remove uneaten prey within 24–48 hours to prevent stress on the spider, especially during pre-molt periods.
Pre-Molt
When your P. striata is approaching a molt, it will typically refuse food, become less active, and may seal itself into its retreat with extra silk. Do not attempt to feed during this time. After molting, wait at least 2 weeks before offering food to allow the fangs and exoskeleton to fully harden.
Handling & Temperament
We want to be direct: the Poecilotheria striata is not a handling species. This is a fast, defensive Old World tarantula with medically significant venom. Bites from Poecilotheria species have been documented to cause significant symptoms including intense localized pain, muscle cramping, sweating, and in rare cases more serious systemic reactions.
This spider is to be admired, observed, and respected — not handled. Always use long tongs during feeding, and exercise extreme caution during any enclosure maintenance. Move slowly, deliberately, and never rush around a Poecilotheria.
Enclosure Maintenance Tips
- Plan before you open: Know exactly what you need to do before opening the enclosure. Have tongs ready at all times.
- Move slowly: Fast movements trigger a defensive response. Slow and deliberate is always the right approach.
- Use a catch cup: Keep a clear acrylic catch cup nearby any time the enclosure is open.
- Spot clean regularly: Remove boluses (uneaten prey remains) promptly to maintain a clean environment.
- Respect the web: Try to avoid disturbing the spider's silk retreat during maintenance. It's their safe space.
Common Questions
My P. striata hasn't eaten in weeks — is something wrong?
Not necessarily. Poecilotheria species can go through extended fasting periods, especially in pre-molt or during winter months. As long as the abdomen isn't severely shrunken and the spider is otherwise behaving normally, fasting is rarely a cause for concern. Offer food every 10–14 days and remove it if refused.
My spider sealed itself in its retreat — should I be worried?
No — this is completely normal behavior, especially pre-molt. Leave the spider alone and give it space. It will emerge when it's ready.
Can I keep two P. striata together?
No. Poecilotheria species are solitary and cannibalistic. Each spider must be housed individually at all times.
Final Thoughts from FLPD
The Poecilotheria striata is one of the most rewarding tarantulas we work with at Field Life Pets Division. It demands respect, proper preparation, and a genuine commitment to responsible keeping — but in return, it offers a display animal unlike almost anything else in the hobby.
If you're ready to take the next step in your tarantula journey, the Mysore Ornamental is waiting for you.
🛒 Shop Poecilotheria striata — Buy Now at FLPD
⇣ Download Free Care Sheet PDF
Stay eight-legged,
FLPD — Field Life Pets Division
fieldlifepets.com