Pterinochilus murinus (DCF) “Kigoma”

Pterinochilus murinus (DCF) “Kigoma” – a dark tarantula with a dense web

In Pterinochilus murinus (DCF) “Kigoma,” the light-colored web stands out clearly against its dark body. The spider binds cork, twigs, and soil together with silk to build a sheltered retreat. The area around the entrance is particularly fascinating: there, it waits for prey and can react very quickly to any movement.

DCF stands for ” Dark Color Form.” “Kigoma” is the name used by hobbyists, referring to the Kigoma region in Tanzania. It is a color form of Pterinochilus murinus, not a separate species or subspecies.

How big should the terrarium be?

For a fully grown animal, 30 × 30 × 30 cm (width × depth × height) is a good guideline. If you have a large animal or limited usable floor space, it’s best to choose a larger tank. For small juveniles, a smaller, well-ventilated rearing container with a secure lid is suitable to start with.

• Allow for about 10 cm of substrate that the spidercan dig into: Press it down lightly so the spider can dig beneath its hiding place without the substrate giving way right away.
• Include cork and low branches: A flat piece of cork provides cover. Slanted branches give the web something to hold onto.
• Place a water dish near the opening: This way, you can refill it with fresh water without having to reach over the hiding spot.
• Keep the surface mostly dry: If necessary, you can lightly moisten one corner. Keep the ventilation areas clear and avoid waterlogging. Make sure small juveniles don’t dry out completely.

Set up the enclosure so that you can open the tank without tearing the web each time. Keep the animals separately.

How often do you feed Pterinochilus murinus?

Offer food animals of the appropriate size near the entrance to the web. As a starting point, you can use these intervals as a guide:

• Baby spiders: very small prey items, such as micro crickets, about twice a week.
• Juveniles: small crickets or cockroaches about every 7–10 days.
• Adult spiders: a suitable prey item about every 2–3 weeks, such as an Argentine forest cockroach.

Adjust the feeding frequency based on the prey’s size, the spider’s appetite, and its nutritional status. Remove any uneaten prey. If the spider retreats to molt, pause feeding until it has fully recovered after molting.

Is the dark color morph suitable for beginners?

We recommend this tarantula to keepers who already have experience. It can move very quickly and will bite if threatened. A bite from Pterinochilus murinus can cause severe pain and muscle cramps. Its dark coloration does not indicate that the venom is less potent. Do not pick up the spider with your hands; use a suitable catching cup to move it.

The Right Accessories for Your Tarantula

Tarantula & Scorpion Terrarium Complete Set – includes a 30 × 30 × 30 cm tank with forest humus and cork bark. When setting up the terrarium, check whether the included substrate is sufficient for the planned fill height.

Tarantula substrate —serves as a substrate in which tarantulas can burrow for your own enclosure or as a supplement if you want to fill the complete set to a greater depth.

Spruce root —provides additional places for the spider to anchor its web. Place it low and securely.

Insektenliebe Round Bowl – serves as a shallow drinking bowl that you can easily remove for cleaning.

Feeding Tweezers – help you remove food scraps without getting your hand too close to the web.

Suitable Live Food – we select the live food based on your spider’s species and size.

Conclusion: Dark color morph with striking web-building

With Pterinochilus murinus (DCF) “Kigoma,” it’s worth watching how the spider builds its hiding place. You can provide the space it needs with a substrate suitable for burrowing, shallow shelters, and sturdy twigs. A securely closing enclosure and an easily accessible water dish will make care easier for you.