Phormingochilus hatihati — Purple Earth Tiger (Sling)

A Rare Arboreal Earth Tiger with Subtle Purple Iridescence

The Purple Earth Tiger Sling is a highly sought-after Old World species, prized for its dark base colour, which is enhanced by a soft purple sheen under the right lighting. Native to Southeast Asia, Phormingochilus hatihati combines arboreal tendencies with earth tiger intensity, making it a unique and rewarding species for experienced keepers.

This is not a typical display tarantula — it prefers to remain hidden in vertical retreats — but when visible, its iridescent tones are striking.

Why You'll Want This Species

• Rare and desirable Southeast Asian species

• Subtle purple iridescence on legs and body

• Unique arboreal earth tiger behaviour (vertical retreat builder)

• Fast, alert, and highly responsive

• Ideal for collectors looking for something uncommon and refined

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Phormingochilus hatihati

• Common Name: Purple Earth Tiger

• Origin: Indonesia (Borneo region)

• Adult Size: ±12–15 cm leg span

• Temperament: Defensive, fast, reclusive

• Lifespan:

  • Females: ±12–15 years (estimated)

  • Males: ±3–4 years

Appearance

• Dark brown to near-black base colour

• Subtle purple or violet sheen, especially on legs

• Sleek, slightly elongated body typical of arboreal species

Its beauty is understated — revealed through light and movement rather than bold contrast.

Enclosure & Setup Guide (By Life Stage)

Sling

• Enclosure: Small vertical sling enclosure or vial with height

• Substrate Depth: 3–5 cm (slightly moist)

• Setup: Vertical cork bark or starter retreat

• Tip: Provide height early — this species prefers vertical security

Juvenile

• Enclosure: Small arboreal enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 5–8 cm

• Setup: Cork bark tube, anchor points for webbing

Sub-Adult

• Enclosure: Medium arboreal enclosure

• Substrate Depth: 8–10 cm

• Setup: Vertical hides, stable décor, water dish

Adult

• Enclosure: Arboreal setup with good height and ventilation

• Substrate Depth: 8–12 cm

• Set up Essentials:

  • Cork bark tube or vertical retreat

  • Water dish

  • Low disturbance, dim environment

Ideal Conditions:

• Temperature: 24–28°C

• Humidity: 70–80% (lightly moist substrate, good airflow)

• Lighting: Low light preferred

• Ventilation: High — essential for arboreal species

Feeding Guide

• Diet: Crickets, roaches, flying insects (occasionally)

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 shows fast, precise feeding responses, often striking from within its retreat.

Behaviour & Handling

This is an advanced Old World species with both speed and defensive tendencies.

• Very fast and highly alert

• Prefers to stay inside vertical retreats

• Defensive when disturbed

• Handling is not recommended

Best suited for keepers who enjoy observing natural arboreal behaviour.

Important Considerations

• Venom: Potent (Old World) — medically significant

• Visibility: Low to moderate (depends on setup)

• Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced

Why Start With a Sling?

Starting with a sling allows you to:

• Observe the development of its arboreal retreat-building behaviour

• Watch its purple sheen become more visible over time

• Gain experience with a less common, advanced species

Ready to Add Something Rare and Refined to Your Collection?

The Purple Earth Tiger Sling is ideal for keepers who value subtle beauty, rarity, and complex behaviour.

Secure yours while it's available — this species does not appear often in the hobby.