• Origin: Ghana
  • Temperament: Defensive
  • Housing: Tall plastic or glass terrarium
  • Diet: Insectivorous

Togo Starbursts are stunning with their white, grey and black /brown patterning. They are a robust arboreal species, suitable for an experienced keeper.

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The Togo Starburst (Heteroscodra maculata is an old world spider that are a must have for most spider collections due to their impressive white and black/grey colouring.

A striking old‑world tarantula with bold white, black and grey colouring. This species is fast, defensive and best suited to experienced keepers.

Species Overview

The Togo Starburst Tarantula (Heteroscodra maculata) is known for its dramatic patterning and impressive web displays. It is an old‑world species with a strong defensive nature, so it is not recommended for beginners.

Appearance

This tarantula has a beautiful mix of white, black and grey markings. The patterning stands out clearly, making it a favourite for keepers who enjoy visually striking spiders.

Temperament

This is a fast and defensive species. Like many old‑world tarantulas, it can deliver a strong bite. It must be treated with respect at all times. We recommend it only for confident, experienced keepers.

Housing Requirements

The Togo Starburst is an arboreal species. It needs a tall enclosure with plenty of vertical décor. Branches, cork bark and upright structures help the spider build its dense webs. These webs often fill the enclosure and create a dramatic display.

A secure enclosure is essential due to the species’ speed and defensive behaviour.

Humidity & Environment

In the wild, this species lives in humid forest habitats. To replicate this, aim for 70–80% humidity. Light misting once or twice a week usually works well.

Coco fibre is an excellent substrate. It helps maintain humidity and creates a natural‑looking environment.

Feeding

In captivity, the Togo Starburst thrives on live insects.

    • Adults: crickets, locusts or roaches

    • Spiderlings: fruit flies until they are large enough for bigger prey

Feed appropriately sized prey and remove any uneaten insects.

Suitability for Keepers

This species is best for experienced tarantula keepers. Its speed, defensive nature and strong bite make it unsuitable for beginners.

Care Summary

    • Scientific name: Heteroscodra maculata

    • Common name: Togo Starburst Tarantula

    • Temperament: Defensive, fast

    • Lifestyle: Arboreal

    • Humidity: 70–80%

    • Temperature: 24–26°C

    • Diet: Crickets, locusts, roaches; fruit flies for spiderlings

    • Experience level: Advanced

Recommended EquipmenT

Availability

To check current availability, please contact our Oxfordshire reptile shop or visit us in store. Our team will be happy to advise you on housing, feeding and care.

FAQ

Is the Togo Starburst Tarantula suitable for beginners? No. It is fast, defensive and recommended only for experienced keepers.

What humidity does this species need? Aim for 70–80% humidity with light misting.

What enclosure should I use? A tall, secure arboreal enclosure with plenty of vertical décor.

What does the Togo Starburst eat? Adults eat crickets, locusts and roaches. Spiderlings eat fruit flies.

These striking old‑world tarantulas are a favourite among experienced keepers thanks to their bold white, black and grey patterning. As an arboreal species, they need a tall enclosure with plenty of vertical structure where they can build dense, impressive webs that quickly become the centrepiece of their habitat.

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