Dark Earth Tiger (Chilobrachys sp. “Kaeng Krachan”)

Quick Facts

Common Name: Dark Earth Tiger

Scientific Name: Chilobrachys sp. “Kaeng Krachan”

Origin: Thailand (Kaeng Krachan National Park)

Habitat Type: Forest floor, humid subtropical regions

Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

Females: 10–12+ years

Males: ~3–4 years

Temperament: Fast, defensive, classic OW temperament

Coloration

Deep earthy brown body with darker legs

Subtle bronze or charcoal sheen depending on lighting

Light banding and patterning common on the carapace

Heavy silk webbing that gives the enclosure a “tunneled cave” look

Not flashy in color — but visually stunning in its natural, earthy aesthetic.

Housing

Enclosure Type: Fossorial — needs depth more than surface

Substrate: Minimum 7–8 inches of moist substrate (coco fiber/topsoil mix)

Humidity: 65–80%

Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

Decor:

• Starter burrow (cork bark leaned at angle)
• Leaf litter and moss
• Water dish

Ventilation + Moisture Balance: Essential — moist lower layers, drier top layer

Expect lots of webbing and deep burrows — this is a true tunneling species.

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms, superworms

Feeding Frequency:

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

Feeding Style: Explosive feeding response — typical Chilobrachys

Why Keep One?

Incredible fossorial webbing — tunnels, funnels, and thick sheets

Hardy and fast-growing

Authentic, natural “earth tiger” appearance

Behaviorally fascinating for experienced keepers

Notes

Not suitable for handling — defensive, very fast

Old World venom: Potent; extra caution needed

May remain hidden for long periods

Keep humidity consistent and avoid letting substrate fully dry