Selenocosmia javanensis (Java Yellow-Knee) 0.75"

The Javan Golden Kneed Tarantula, Selenocosmia javanensis Walckenaer, is a beautiful member of the barking/whistling spider genus Selenocosmia. This species reaches a 6-7" diagonal leg span and develops dark gray to jet black coloration throughout the body and legs with short velvet-like hairs. The joints of each leg have a slightly yellowish color, but the common name "Yellow Kneed" is a misnomer for this essentially monochromatic black tarantula. Nevertheless, these are beautiful, sleek, leggy terrestrials, similar to other members of the subfamily Selenocosmiinae.

S. javanensis is a fossorial (burrowing) tarantula from the lush rainforests of Malaysia to Sulawesi that readily excavates elaborate earthen tunnels into clayey substrates and colonizes tree hollows. These whistling spiders have a fast growth rate, are skittish, highly defensive, have potent venom for a tarantula, and are lightning fast. S. javanensis is, therefore, best suited to the experienced keeper and not to be handled. This species has a moderate to strong feeding response.

Vertical to horizontal fossorial cages with deep substrates are best for the extensive burrowing habits of S. javanensis. These spiders perform best under high humidity and slightly moist medium, but the substrate surface should be allowed to dry between periodic light mistings. Give this tarantula plenty of organic substrates and a dark, quiet location, and let them go to town tunneling. If a beautiful, black, whistling spider sounds appealing, the Javan Golden Kneed Tarantula is the spider for you.