Malaysian Earth Tiger Tarantula (Omothymus schioedtei ) Care and setup

The Malaysian Earth Tiger Tarantula, also known as the Malaysian Earth Tiger or the Asian Tiger Tarantula, is a fascinating and unique species of tarantula that is native Peninsular Malaysia. These large and striking spiders are highly sought after by arachnid enthusiasts for their distinctive coloration, impressive size, and fascinating behavior. In this blog, we will explore the characteristics and natural history of the Malaysian Earth Tiger Tarantula, as well as provide some insights into the care and keeping of this amazing species. Whether you’re a seasoned tarantula keeper or simply curious about these intriguing arachnids, we invite you to join us on a journey into the world of the Malaysian Earth Tiger Tarantula.

Physical Appearance

The physical appearance of the Malaysian Earth Tiger Tarantula is both striking and impressive. As a member of the tarantula family, this species has the typical eight legs and two body parts, with a distinctively large, bulbous abdomen. The legs are covered in dense, short hairs, which give them a velvety texture and provide some protection from predators.

The body of the Malaysian Earth Tiger Tarantula is dark brown or black, with striking bands or stripes of bright orange or yellow running down the legs and abdomen. These bold markings have earned the species its nickname of “tiger tarantula.” The bands can be either thin or thick, and their arrangement can vary slightly between individuals.

The carapace, or top part of the spider’s body, has a distinctive pattern of light-colored markings that resemble the shape of a skull, hence its alternative name of “skull-faced tarantula.” The skull pattern is formed by two central markings that run down the front of the carapace, with smaller markings above and below them.

Natural Habitat

Malaysian Earth Tiger tarantulas are found in the coastal forests in Sabah, Malaysia, mostly between sea level and 300m. Their natural habitat is to be found in the primary lowland and foothill monsoon forest in hollow trees many meters up. When the Malaysian rainforest began to disappear, it opened up a whole new world for the tiger spider.

It made it easier for tigers to hunt, giving them greater access to prey. The trees fell, and the plants grew, but the tiger spiders stayed put, living on the forest floor. This step changed the habitat for the tiger spider in a positive way.

Housing of Malaysian earth tiger tarantula

To house an Omothymus schioedtei tarantula, we recommend using a large plastic or wooden aquarium (at least 2 feet long by 1 foot wide) with at least 10-inch deep substrates, such as plasterboard, wood chips, or gravel. We’ve found that a large aquarium is best for housing earth tigers because it can provide the necessary humidity, heat, and airflow.  Read about old world tarantulas to discover more about their fascinating behavior and unique habitats.

It is important to take good care of an earth tiger tarantula. For example, you should never let the humidity in its container get too high. A humidity level of 30% to 50% is ideal. This portion allows the tarantula to regulate its body temperature. At the same time, the humidity levels should never be too low either. Make sure that the humidity stays between 30% and 50%. An adequate amount of environmental moisture will allow your earth tiger tarantula to produce silk and shed its old skin. Make sure that the container has ventilation holes. 

Food 

As with humans, the amount of protein a spider needs depends on what it’s eating. The food intake of the earth tiger tarantula is estimated to be between 1.5 to 2 percent of its weight. Omothymus schioedtei can live up to two years, though that can vary depending on conditions. They feed mostly on insects and small lizards.

Temperature and humidity 

The temperature and humidity are the factors that control the spider’s behavior and activities. Temperatures in the low 50s (f) are ideal for these tarantulas to overwinter. Humidity levels should stay around 50-70% F. The tarantula requires only a small area to live in. The size of the box, however, does matter. They need room to move around, and if the box is too small, they can die due to a lack of space and access to food sources.

Does the bite of the Malaysian earth tiger Tarantula poisonous?

An earth tiger tarantula has no teeth. Instead, it uses its legs and forelegs to grab prey and eat it. These earth tiger tarantulas have a nasty bite. They do not have a poisonous bite, however. These tarantulas inject their bite with saliva that contains toxins. Most spiders that have been bitten have no problem surviving their bite. However, sometimes the bite can be painful. If an earth tiger tarantula bites you, you might feel some swelling. The bite will heal within seven days. You should consult your doctor immediately if you feel an earth tiger tarantula has bitten you.

Mating and reproduction of Omothymus schioedtei 

In the wild, Earth Tiger tarantulas mate in spring. The females lay their eggs in warm, moist soil and the males wait outside the nest for the females to emerge. The eggs hatch after two weeks, with the larvae emerging into the world as a spider. After mating, the male stays with the female until she gives birth, at which point he will leave her. A male will then seek a mate who has given birth to live young. He will then mate with her for the rest of her lifetime.

Handling 

It is generally harmless to humans but can deliver painful stings. Though it is usually kept as a pet in the home, it should be contained in an enclosure because the tarantulas are nocturnal hunters. There are two types of Tarantulas; those that are active and those that are docile. Active Omothymus schioedtei has a very strong personality and are not afraid of people. They are very active and may eat small creatures such as flies and moths. Because they are very aggressive and territorial, it is best to keep them in a large room with other Tarantulas that are less aggressive.

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