Poecilotheria is a genus of tarantulas native to India and Sri Lanka, They are arboreal tarantulas, commonly known as ornamental tarantulas. Known for their vivid colours patterns, fast movement and medically significant  venom compared to other tarantulas. As of 2019 all species are protected under CITES.

There is a debate about the taxonomy of a few species. Some sources identify Poecilotheria vittata of Sri Lanka as a synonym of Poecilotheria striata of India,[citation needed] but in other sources both of them have been given valid species identity.[1] The naming of Poecilotheria bara from Sri Lanka is also in debate – whether it is the same species as Poecilotheria subfusca, found in south central parts of Sri Lanka. In 2014, Ranil P. Nanayakkara, a Sri Lanka arachnologist, regarded P. vittata, P. striata, P. bara, and P. subfusca as distinct species.

​

Poecilotheria are for advanced keepers.

This large beautiful Tarantula is stunning  and a must have in any Arboreal collection.