Lam Dong Earth Tiger (Ornithoctoninae sp. Lam Dong)

The Lam Dong Earth Tiger is a fascinating Vietnamese Old World tarantula prized by collectors for its earthy coloration, impressive fossorial behavior, and classic Earth Tiger personality. This is a species for experienced keepers who appreciate fast, defensive, secretive tarantulas with strong burrowing instincts.

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Lam Dong Earth Tiger
• Scientific Name: Ornithoctoninae sp. “Lam Dong”
• Origin: Vietnam — Lam Dong Province
• Habitat Type: Terrestrial / Fossorial
• Size: Approximately 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span
• Lifespan:
  • Females: approximately 10–15+ years
  • Males: approximately 3–5 years
• Temperament: Fast, defensive, and reclusive

Coloration

• Dark brown to black overall coloration
• Deep chocolate and bronze tones across the legs and carapace
• Subtle metallic highlights depending on lighting
• Dense, velvety body covering

Its earthy tones give it the classic Earth Tiger appearance, perfectly suited to its fossorial lifestyle.

Housing

• Enclosure Type: Terrestrial / Fossorial
• Substrate: 6–8+ inches of compactable substrate
• Humidity: 70–80%
• Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)
• Decor:
  • Cork bark or starter burrow
  • Leaf litter
  • Moss
  • Water dish
• Ventilation: Good cross-ventilation with a moisture gradient

Give this species plenty of depth. Once established, it may construct an extensive tunnel network and spend much of its time underground.

Feeding

• Diet: Crickets, dubia roaches, locusts, mealworms, and other appropriately sized feeder insects
• Slings: 2–3x per week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 7–14 days depending on body condition
• Feeding Style: Fast and powerful

Expect a rapid feeding response once the spider is settled.

Why Keep One?

• 🇻🇳 Unique Vietnamese locality
• 🐯 Classic Earth Tiger appearance
• 🕸️ Fascinating fossorial behavior
• ⚡ Fast and powerful hunter
• ⭐ Excellent addition to an advanced Old World collection

Notes

• Not suitable for beginners
• Extremely fast and potentially defensive
• Old World species — no urticating hairs
• Not recommended for handling
• Use a secure, escape-proof enclosure
• Exercise extra caution during rehousing and enclosure maintenance