Heteropoda boiei (commonly misspelled as H. boei) is a large species of huntsman spider known as the Lichen Huntsman. Native to Southeast Asia—including Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and Java—it is highly sought after in the pet trade for its striking appearance and "teleporting" speed.
 
Physical Characteristics
Appearance: They exhibit distinct sexual dimorphism. Males often have shimmering purple and green tones, while females are larger with bold, "dalmatian-like" spots that provide camouflage against lichen-covered bark.
Size: This is a large species, with a leg span that can reach up to 15 cm (approximately 6 inches).
Behaviour: Like most huntsmen, they are nocturnal, arboreal, and exceptionally fast. They do not build webs but rely on speed and stealth to ambush prey. 
 
Care and Housing
For those keeping H. boiei in captivity as of 2026, the following requirements are standard:
Enclosure: They require a tall, arboreal setup with plenty of vertical surfaces like cork bark or lichen branches for climbing and hiding.
Environment:
Temperature: Ideally maintained between 24°C and 30°C (approx. 75°F – 86°F).
Humidity: They require high humidity, typically 55% to 90%, often achieved through moisture-retaining substrates like sphagnum moss and regular misting.
Diet: Primarily insects (e.g., crickets or roaches). They have high metabolisms and may need more frequent feeding than many tarantulas. 
 
Safety and Venom
Venom: While they possess venom to subdue prey, it is generally considered harmless to humans, typically causing only temporary pain and minor swelling.
Handling: Direct handling is not recommended due to their extreme speed and potential to deliver a defensive nip if startled.