Ornithoctoninae sp. "Phan Cay Blue" — Phan Cay Blue (Sling)

A Rare Electric-Blue Treasure for the Serious Collector

The Phan Cay Blue Sling is one of the most exciting and visually striking tarantulas to emerge from Southeast Asia in recent years. Still awaiting formal scientific classification, this remarkable species has captured the attention of collectors worldwide thanks to its stunning blue colouration, fascinating behaviour, and rarity within the hobby.

Belonging to the Ornithoctoninae group of Old World tarantulas, the Phan Cay Blue combines beauty with the speed, intelligence, and defensive nature that experienced keepers appreciate. As it matures, many specimens develop breathtaking shades of blue, steel-blue, violet, and charcoal, making it a true centrepiece species.

For collectors seeking something uncommon and unforgettable, the Phan Cay Blue is an exceptional choice.

Why You'll Want This Species

• Stunning blue and steel-blue colouration

• Rare and highly sought-after collector's species

• Fast-growing compared to many tarantulas

• Fascinating burrowing and web-building behaviour

• Powerful feeding response

• A premium addition to advanced collections

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Ornithoctoninae sp. "Phan Cay Blue"

• Common Name: Phan Cay Blue

• Origin: Vietnam

• Adult Size: Approximately 13–16 cm leg span

• Temperament: Defensive, fast, and highly alert

• Lifespan:

  • Females: 12–15 years

  • Males: 3–4 years

Appearance

The Phan Cay Blue is prized for its remarkable colouration:

• Blue, steel-blue, and violet tones across the legs and body

• Dark charcoal or black base colour

• Metallic sheen that intensifies under proper lighting

• Elegant proportions typical of Southeast Asian Old World species

The exact intensity of colouration can vary between individuals, making every specimen unique.

Enclosure & Setup Guide (By Life Stage)

Sling

• Enclosure: Small burrowing sling enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 5–8 cm

• Setup: Starter burrow and cork bark hide

• Tip: Provide a deep substrate from an early age to encourage natural behaviour

Juvenile

• Enclosure: Small terrestrial enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 10–12 cm

• Setup: Cork bark retreat, water dish, and deep substrate

Sub-Adult

• Enclosure: Medium terrestrial enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 12–18 cm

• Setup: Deep substrate, web anchor points, and minimal disturbance

Adult

• Enclosure: Terrestrial burrowing setup with ample floor space

• Substrate Depth: 15–20 cm

• Setup Essentials:

  • Deep substrate for tunnelling

  • Cork bark hide or starter burrow

  • Water dish

  • Secure enclosure with good ventilation

Ideal Conditions:

• Temperature: 24–28°C

• Humidity: 70–80%

• Lighting: Low light preferred

• Ventilation: Good airflow while maintaining moisture in the lower substrate layers

Feeding Guide

Diet:
Crickets, roaches, locusts, and other appropriately sized feeder insects.

Feeding Schedule:

• Slings: 2–3 times per week

• Juveniles: Once per week

• Sub-adults: Every 7–10 days

• Adults: Every 10–14 days

This species is known for its enthusiastic feeding response and powerful ambush-hunting behaviour.

Behaviour & Handling

• Extremely fast and highly reactive

• Creates extensive burrow systems

• Frequently, webs around tunnel entrances

• Defensive when disturbed

• Handling is not recommended

Like many Old World species, the Phan Cay Blue is best appreciated through observation rather than interaction.

Important Considerations

• Venom: Potent (Old World species) — medically significant

• Visibility: Low to moderate

• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced

• Speed: Extremely fast

This species is best suited to keepers who are comfortable working with defensive Old World tarantulas.

Why Start With a Sling?

Starting with a sling allows you to:

• Watch the spectacular blue colouration develop over time

• Observe natural burrowing and web-building behaviour from the beginning

• Gain experience with one of the hobby's most sought-after collector species

• Raise a rare and impressive specimen through every stage of development

Ready to Add a Rare Blue Masterpiece to Your Collection?

The Phan Cay Blue Sling is perfect for collectors who appreciate rarity, exceptional colouration, and fascinating natural behaviour.

Secure yours today and experience the journey of raising one of the most desirable blue tarantulas in the hobby.