1. Species Selection is Everything
You cannot out-care genetics. If you want a truly large spider, start with a species known for its size.
-
Giants: Theraphosa stirmi (Burgundy Goliath), Theraphosa blondi (Goliath Birdeater), Lasiodora parahybana (Salmon Pink Birdeater), Pamphobeteus species.
-
Remember: Larger species often have more specific care needs and can be more defensive.
2. Prioritize Hydration Over Constant Feeding
A common mistake is overfeeding to promote growth. This can lead to fatal ruptures during molts or obesity.
-
Secret: A well-hydrated spider molts more easily and recovers faster. Focus on a full, clean water dish at all times and occasional gentle misting for humidity-dependent species. Proper hydration is the unsung hero of growth.
3. The Power of the “Feast and Famine” Cycle
In the wild, spiders experience periods of plenty and scarcity. Mimicking this is healthier than constant feeding.
-
Secret: Feed appropriately sized prey (body length of spider or smaller) regularly during growth periods (slings/juveniles). For sub-adults/adults, allow for longer breaks between meals (e.g., 1-2 times a week, sometimes skipping a week). This prevents obesity and stimulates natural metabolism.
4. Optimize Enclosure Temperature
Spiders are ectotherms. Their metabolism is directly tied to ambient temperature.
-
Secret: Maintain a stable, species-appropriate warm temperature (typically 75-80°F / 24-27°F for most tropical giants). A properly warmed spider will digest food more efficiently and may grow at a more steady rate, but avoid excessive heat.
5. Provide a Stress-Free Environment
Stress is the #1 growth inhibitor and health risk. It causes fasting, bad molts, and injuries.
-
Secrets:
-
Give enough space to molt (1.5-2x leg span in height for terrestrials), but not so much space that they feel exposed.
-
Provide ample, secure hiding spots.
-
Place the enclosure in a low-traffic, low-vibration area.
-
No handling. Handling is pure stress for the spider and risks falls.
-
6. Master Humidity for Perfect Molts
A bad molt can stunt growth, cause deformities, or be fatal. Humidity is critical in the days/weeks leading up to a molt.
-
Secret: Do not rely on guesswork. Use a digital hygrometer. Research your species’ specific needs:
-
Moisture-dependent (Theraphosa, Megaphobema): Keep substrate damp with a dry area.
-
Arid species (Grammostola, Aphonopelma): Mostly dry with a water dish.
-
Increase humidity slightly when you see pre-molt signs (darkening abdomen, reduced appetite).
-
7. Offer Varied, Nutritious Prey
A cricket-only diet isn’t ideal.
-
Secret: Rotate feeder types: Dubia roaches (excellent nutrition, low chitin), red runner roaches, superworms (occasionally, high-fat), hornworms (great for hydration). Gut-load all feeders with nutritious vegetables 24-48 hours before feeding.
8. Patience is the Ultimate Virtue
Spider growth is measured in years, not months. Forcing it leads to disaster.
-
Secret: Allow the spider to set its own pace. Consistent, optimal care over years will allow it to reach its full genetic potential. Enjoy each life stage.
9. Meticulous Post-Molt Care
The spider is at its most vulnerable and is not ready to resume normal life.
-
Secret: DO NOT FEED until the exoskeleton has fully hardened. This takes from 1-2 weeks for slings to 3-4+ weeks for large adults. Offer water, but wait until the fangs have hardened (they turn from pale to dark) before attempting to feed.
10. Observe, Don’t Interfere
Your most important tool is your eyes.
-
Secret: Learn your spider’s normal behavior. Is it refusing food? It might be in pre-molt. Is it spending unusual time at the water dish? Check humidity. Constant pacing? Could be stress. Observation allows you to intervene only when necessary, which is the hallmark of expert care.
The Golden Rule: Your goal should be a healthy spider that reaches its natural, full size. Chasing “biggest” through extreme feeding or improper conditions will shorten your pet’s lifespan. Provide consistent, species-specific care, and you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent, thriving arachnid.