How to Set Up a Tarantula Tank

Creating the right home for your pet tarantula is important. If you don't have a tarantula already, consider the adult size of the animal when selecting your pet. The spider's home should be large enough for it to move around freely as an adult; yet not too big. British Tarantula Society member Guy Tansley warns if the home is too large, the tarantula will have difficulty finding its food.

Things You'll Need

  • 5 to 10 gallon aquarium
  • 5 pounds sterilized potting soil
  • Tank accessories
  • Heating pad
  • Locking mesh aquarium lid
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Instructions

    • 1

      Calculate the right size tank for your tarantula. To do this, multiply the length and width of the animal by two to determine the right size for your spider, if it is not full grown already. For example, if the spider is 6 inches long and 4 inches wide, the floor of the tank should be approximately 12 by 8 inches. Once chosen, wash and dry the tank thoroughly.

    • 2

      Fill the bottom of the tank with the sterile potting soil 1.5 to 2 inches deep.

    • 3

      Place a decoration such as a plastic broad-leaf plant or an arch of natural bark in the tank. This makes the spiders home more attractive, and gives the spider a place to hide.

    • 4

      Place the entire tank on top of a heating pad. This is a special pad used for heating insect and reptile habitats. It looks like a common heating pad, however, this pad does not have a soft outer cover. It also has a thermostat that controls the amount of heat, which aids n maintaining the temperature of the tarantula's new home. Consult with your local pet store or where you bought the spider to make sure you find just the right pad for your new pet.

    • 5

      Place a locking mesh lid on the tank. The lid must latch around the lip at the top of the aquarium. Jonathan Rheins from Insect Hobbyist, warns that spiders are natural escape artists and will get out of a loosely covered home.