Pterinochilus murinus “Usambara”

Pterinochilus murinus “Usambara” and its impressive temperament

Pterinochilus murinus “Usambara”often affectionately called “OBT” (“Orange Baboon Tarantula”), is one of the best known and most impressive tarantulas in Africa. Its intense orange, reminiscent of the soil of the Usambara Mountains in Tanzania, makes it an absolute color icon in the hobby. This species looks powerful, lively and immediately present – a spider that immediately attracts everyone’s attention in the terrarium.

However, their behavior is in no way inferior to their appearance. Pterinochilus murinus “Usambara” likes to build complex webs and transform the terrarium into a fascinating landscape of tubes, tunnels and silky carpets. As a result, its behavior can often be observed very well, as it regularly moves back and forth between its constructions. It is one of the most active tarantulas around and clearly shows how skillfully it uses its territory.

This species prefers a rather dry habitat. A terrarium from 30 × 30 × 30 cm offers enough space for their creative webs. The substrate may be predominantly dry, but a slightly damp corner creates a stable microclimate. Temperatures between 24 and 28 °C are well suited to the origin of the species, which comes from warm, savannah-like regions. Good ventilation is important as it appreciates very dry, well-aerated conditions.

Pterinochilus murinus “Usambara” eats reliably and shows a fast, targeted hunt. It accepts cockroaches, crickets and crickets without any problems. Its speed of reaction creates an exciting dynamic in the terrarium, as it hunts with an energetic precision that is rarely seen in other species.

However, this species is not for beginners. It reacts quickly, uses its speed and shows clear defensive behavior. Nevertheless, it remains an incredibly exciting species for keepers who have experience with agile spiders and enjoy active, highly visible animals. Their intense orange color, their charisma and their self-confident nature make Pterinochilus murinus “Usambara” is one of the tarantulas with the strongest character of all.

With the right set-up, dry conditions and sufficient structure in the terrarium, it develops reliably and remains a fascinating inhabitant for a long time, inspiring both visually and behaviorally.