Pamphobeteus cf. antinous “Big Black” — Big Black Birdeater
The Pamphobeteus cf. antinous “Big Black” is one of the most impressive and unique members of the Pamphobeteus genus. Known for its incredibly dark coloration, this tarantula almost appears to absorb light, creating a deep black appearance that becomes even more dramatic as it matures. A true giant among terrestrial tarantulas, this species is a stunning choice for collectors who appreciate massive size, powerful presence, and rare beauty.
| ⭐ Special Notices |
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| Collector Notes |
This dark giant Pamphobeteus variety is highly admired by collectors because of its incredible coloration and impressive adult appearance. As they grow larger, their deep black tones become even more striking, making them a true centerpiece tarantula. |
| Setup Notes |
Provide a secure terrestrial enclosure with deep substrate, a hide, and good ventilation. This is a large-bodied species with a strong feeding response and should always be given enough space as it matures. |
| Video Resources |
Check out my care, setup, feeding, and show-and-tell videos on the Urban Tarantulas YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/UrbanTarantulas
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| 🕷️ Care Details |
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| 🌡️ Temperature |
Around 75–78°F (24–26°C). Pamphobeteus generally thrive at moderate temperatures. Warmer temperatures usually mean faster growth because they molt more often. |
| 💧 Humidity |
75–80% inside the enclosure with good ventilation. Keep the substrate lightly moist but never swampy. Avoid bone-dry conditions. |
| 🏠 Housing |
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| Babies |
1–4 oz deli cup with needle ventilation. FREE container at checkout IF requested; not included otherwise. |
| Juveniles |
Use a secure terrestrial enclosure with substrate depth for natural behaviors and a hide. Upgrade as the tarantula grows. |
| Adults |
A large terrestrial enclosure around 2–3x body size with deep substrate, a hide, and enough room for this giant species to move comfortably. |
| 🍽️ General Diet |
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| 🍽️ Feeding |
I feed crickets and roaches including Dubia, Red Runner, and Lobster roaches. Babies eat baby crickets and roaches. We never use pinhead crickets because they do not provide enough protein. If prey is too big, pre-kill by crushing the head, leave it, then remove leftovers or bolus. Super large specimens can occasionally receive a pinky/hopper mouse or feeder lizard very sparingly; excess calcium can cause constipation and pooping issues. |
| 📚 In-depth Facts |
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| 🕷️ Latin name / Scientific name |
Pamphobeteus cf. antinous “Big Black” |
| 📛 Common name(s) |
Big Black Birdeater, Black Pamphobeteus |
| 🌡️ Temperature |
Around 75–78°F (24–26°C) |
| 💧 Humidity |
75–80% with good ventilation and a properly maintained enclosure |
| 📍 Locale |
Peru region locality (cf. antinous form) |
| 🏷️ Category |
Terrestrial, giant-bodied, moderate webbing, occasional burrower |
| 📏 Size |
Female DLS: approximately 8–9 inches. Male DLS: approximately 6–7 inches. Maximum size: around 9 inches. |
| 🪶 Urticating hairs |
Yes. This species may kick urticating hairs when stressed and should be given space when disturbed. |
| ⏳ Growth rate |
Fast. Pamphobeteus are known for excellent appetites and strong growth rates compared to many other large tarantulas. |
| 🧭 Life span |
Females can live 15+ years. Males typically live around 3–5 years after maturity. |
| 🍽️ Feeding |
A powerful feeding response is common. Large adults can take impressive prey items due to their size and strength. |
| 🎯 Recommended levels |
Great for keepers who love massive, dark-colored tarantulas and want a rare Pamphobeteus with incredible adult appearance and display appeal. |
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| ⚠️ Safety Disclaimer |
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Safety Disclaimer: Tarantula bites are extremely rare, and there are no recorded human fatalities. Venom strength varies by species; Old World tarantulas are usually more potent than New World tarantulas, with Poecilotheria known for especially strong venom. Larger tarantulas may also deliver more venom.
If bitten, stay calm. Most symptoms fade within minutes to hours, though potent species may cause discomfort for up to a week. In 13 years, I’ve only been bitten once, and symptoms were gone after one week.
Handling is at your own risk. I’m not responsible for bites or injuries. Always prioritize your safety and the tarantula’s well-being. |
