Mike's Basic Tarantula
A Basic Site for the Tarantula enthusiast
Orphnaecus philippinus
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Common name: Philippine Tangerine
Indigenous: Philippine
Habitat: Though some rainfall can be expected in every month, the rainfall differs greatly through the year. In the period June - October it is the rainy season. In the period December - May there is no monsoon anymore.
The average year-round temperature is 26.6 °C (79.9 °F). Cooler days are usually felt in the month of January with temperature averaging at 25.5 °C (77.9 °F) and the warmest days, in the month of May is 28.3 °C (82.9°F).
Temp/humidity: 78°-84°F / 70-80% humidity. I also dampen one-half of the substrate in the terrarium by overflowing the water dish then I allow it to dry out.
Enclosure: This is a obligate burrower. As a spiderling, I used a vial that would allow at least three inches (7.62cm) of substrate for burrowing. As sub-adult-adult I use a terrarium that will allow at least five inches (12.7cm) of substrate
Substrate: five inches (12.7cm) of substrate. (I use a mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, coconut fiber and dirt for firmness, as the substrate).
Retreat/Hide: This tarantula does not need a hide, for it will make its own burrow.
Food Consumption: I fed my new born spiderlings fruit flies, than when they reached one-half inch (1.27cm), I introduced baby crickets, My adult Philippine Tangerine, I give one (1), one inch (2.54cm)  B. dubia roaches or one (1) adult crickets weekly. This species is a good eater, and attack its prey with a vengeance.
Water Requirements: I keep a water dish in the tank.
Growth Rate: The growth rate for this species is medium. With proper heating and feeding it may attain a leg length of two inches (5.08cm) within a year.
Adult Size: This species may attain a leg length of three inches (7.62cm). My girl is three inches (7.62cm).
Temperament: This is a very reclusive tarantula, as an adult. It may use a defensive pose, but it is not aggressive, but would rather retreat than stand and fight.
Comments: An aggressive eating T. It ambushes its prey with lightening speed, than drag it down the burrow for consumption. They have never refused a meal unless near a molt. This is a beautiful tangerine orange Old World dwarf tarantula. A must have to your collection.