One of the most visually stunning tarantulas in the world. The Gooty Sapphire is renowned for its iridescent metallic blue coloration, intricate geometric patterns and electric-blue legs. An arboreal Old World species, it is fast, confident and medically significant — best suited to experienced keepers who appreciate it from a distance.
Origin
Nallamala Forest, Andhra Pradesh, India
Temperament
Fast and defensive — not recommended for beginners
Size
KL 6-8cm
Lifespan
Females up to 12 years, males 3–4 years
Did you know
First collected near Gooty, India in 1899 and then lost to science for over a century — P. metallica was not rediscovered until 2001, this time in the protected Nallamala Forest. It remains one of the rarest tarantulas in the wild and is listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN.
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Keeping Guide
Housing
Arboreal setup, minimum 30×30×45 cm (height is priority). Provide cork bark tubes at height for hiding and anchoring webbing. Live plants — bromeliads, pothos and ferns work particularly well — help maintain humidity naturally and make for a stunning display. A bioactive substrate with springtails and isopods is highly recommended to manage waste and prevent mould. Water dish at the base and good cross ventilation essential.
Temperature & Humidity
Room temperature is sufficient in most European homes (20–26°C). No additional heating required in most cases. Humidity 70–80% — mist one side lightly every few days. Good cross ventilation is critical to prevent mould at this humidity level.
Feeding
Crickets or roaches appropriate to body size every 7–10 days. Newly settled individuals may refuse food for weeks — this is normal. Never force feed and always remove uneaten prey promptly. P. metallica will eat when ready.
Handling
Not recommended under any circumstances. P. metallica is fast, defensive and medically significant — its venom can cause severe systemic reactions. This is a display animal to be admired, not handled. Treat every enclosure interaction with full respect and preparation.
Experience Level
Advanced. Not suitable for beginners. P. metallica demands a keeper who is calm, methodical and fully aware of the risks. The reward is one of the most breathtaking animals in the hobby — but respect must come first.
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