Species: Psednocnemis brachyramosa
Common name: Malaysian Blue Femur
Native range: Malaysia
Temperature: 24-28°C, with a 2-3°C drop at night
Humidity: 75-85%
Adult size: Females reach about 5-6 cm body length
Lifestyle: Fossorial
Speed: Fast
Venom potency: Potent
Temperament: Skittish, defensive when disturbed
Recommended for: Advanced keepers
Notes: Not CITES-listed; no captive-bred certificate required
Psednocnemis brachyramosa
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Description
In the hobby it goes by the name Malaysian Blue Femur, and the name gives away its secret: a metallic blue sheen on the femora that flashes with every move once the light hits at the right angle. The rest of the body stays in muted browns, which makes that flash feel like a surprise.
Psednocnemis brachyramosa is a secretive burrower from the humid forests of Malaysia. It spends most of its life underground, webbing the entrance of its burrow so the web betrays the owner before the spider shows itself. Evening is the best time to watch it hunt.
In captivity it needs deep, slightly moist substrate above all - at least 10 cm of coco fibre mixed with soil, plus a starter hide, a water dish and 75-85% humidity. Room temperature is fine, with an optimum of 24-28°C.
Like most Asian tarantulas it is quick and its venom deserves respect. A display-only spider, recommended for experienced keepers who will appreciate how rarely this species shows up in European collections.