Cuban Bronze (Phormictopus auratus)

Phormictopus auratus is a large, bold, and beautifully metallic species hailing from Cuba. Known for its shimmering bronze tones and impressive size, this tarantula combines eye-catching looks with a feisty personality — a stunner for experienced hobbyists who enjoy active, visible spiders.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Cuban Bronze

Scientific Name: Phormictopus auratus

Origin: Cuba

Size: 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

• Females: 15–20 years
• Males: ~3–5 years

Temperament: Bold and defensive; not recommended for handling

Coloration

Metallic bronze/copper carapace

Legs often shimmer with green or violet hues in the right light

Abdomen covered in thick reddish or brown setae

Vivid and glossy — especially post-molt

Housing & Care

Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — needs space for roaming

Substrate: 4–6 inches of slightly moist substrate (coco fiber/topsoil)

Humidity: 70–80% — keep one side moist

Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

Decor:

• Large cork hide or flat slab
• Leaf litter and moss
• Sturdy water dish

Loves to dig or bulldoze — expect rearranged enclosures often!

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, superworms, locusts

Feeding Schedule:

• Slings: 2–3x/week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 10–14 days

Voracious eater — very food-motivated and strikes hard

Why Keep One?

Striking metallic sheen — flashy and dramatic

Large and fast-growing compared to many New World species

Fascinating behavior — bold, interactive, and always busy

Excellent display tarantula if you don’t mind attitude

Notes

Can be defensive — quick to flick hairs and take a threat posture

Not for beginners due to speed, attitude, and size

Will often bulldoze its setup, so secure decor is a must

Needs consistent humidity with good airflow to avoid mold