Tanzanian black tarantula (Encyocratella olivacea)
Invertebrates · Difficulty: Experts
Key facts and care guidance for Tanzanian black tarantula (Encyocratella olivacea) (origin: Tanzania). Adult size around body 5–6 cm, leg span 13–15 cm. Life expectancy females 10–12 years, males 2–3 years. The values below are carefully researched guidance.
Short answers
Tanzanian black tarantula: How big does the enclosure need to be?
From 30×30×40 cm.
Tanzanian black tarantula: What temperature does it need?
Daytime 24–28 °C, at night 20–22 °C.
Tanzanian black tarantula: Does it need UVB lighting?
UVB: Not required.
Tanzanian black tarantula: How long do they live?
Life expectancy: females 10–12 years, males 2–3 years.
Tanzanian black tarantula: Is it suitable for beginners?
No – better suited to experienced keepers (difficulty: Experts).
Climate
- Daytime temperature
- 24–28 °C
- Night temperature
- 20–22 °C
- Humidity
- 70–80 %
- UVB
- Not required
Enclosure
- Minimum size
- from 30×30×40 cm
- Substrate
- Humus, a vertical cork tube
Feeding
- Food
- Insects
- Feeding interval
- Adults 1×/week
Key facts
- Adult size
- body 5–6 cm, leg span 13–15 cm
- Life expectancy
- females 10–12 years, males 2–3 years
- Origin
- Tanzania
- Protection status
- —
- Brumation
- No
- Cohabitation
- Keep them singly — tarantulas are cannibals. The reason is not fighting but feeding: these animals take anything that fits in the mouth, and a second animal in the enclosure counts.
Notes
An Old World species, very defensive and fast, with medically significant venom. It builds extensive webbing up high.
Do you keep this species?
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Related species
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- Singapore blue tarantula (Omothymus violaceopes) – Expert
- Blue foot baboon tarantula (Idiothele mira) – Intermediate
What you need to start
To keep Tanzanian black tarantula (Encyocratella olivacea) you typically need: a suitable enclosure (from 30×30×40 cm), substrate (Humus, a vertical cork tube), a heat source with a thermostat, thermometer and hygrometer, a water dish and hides. You will find equipment in the Reptoria marketplace.
The complete, interactive care database is in the Reptoria app.
Last updated: 9 October 2026 · Editor: Reptoria editorial team · Sources include: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Encyocratella, https://thespidershop.co.uk/product/encyocratella-olivacea-2/
All values are non-binding guidance and do not replace expert advice. Research thoroughly from several sources before acquiring and keeping an animal, and observe the applicable law (species and animal protection in particular).