Philippine Tangerine (Orphnaecus Philippinus)

What comes to mind when you think of a large orange tarantula with a reputation for attitude?

Most would immediately say the OBT, Pterinochilus murinus – the Orange Baboon Tarantula. But it’s not the only big, orange old-world species out there. Orphnaecus philippinus, better known as the Philippine Tangerine, also fits the bill, though it differs in both looks and behavior.

Unlike the chunky build common in baboon spiders, the Philippine Tangerine has a much slimmer, sleek appearance with a velvety texture and little to no markings across its body. Even the carapace and abdomen are elongated and oval, giving the abdomen a “pill-shaped” look that some keepers point out.

When it comes to temperament, this is still an old-world tarantula and can certainly defend itself if necessary. However, its usual instinct is to dash for cover rather than confront a threat. If cornered, it won’t hesitate to escalate, but reports of bites are rare. Still, their venom is considered medically significant and a bite would almost certainly be very painful.