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Johnston's Whip Spider

Damon johnstonii

DamonPhrynichidae

intermediate

Overview

An African whip spider with an enormous antenniform-leg span — completely harmless (no venom, no sting). Like other Damon it lives in rock and bark crevices and tolerates slightly lower humidity (65-80%) than tropical genera, but dehydration is still the top killer, so mist and provide water. Often kept communally given vertical cork to cling to. Tall enclosure, strong ventilation. Shy — freezes or bolts.

Husbandry Requirements

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature

72-80°F

Humidity

65-80%

Enclosure Sizes

Adult:vertical enclosure with cork bark/flat hides

Substrate

Type:moist coco fiber; vertical cork bark for clinging; water dish; strong ventilation
Depth:2-3 inches

Feeding Schedule

Adult:1-2 prey per week

Prey size: crickets, roaches

Quick Stats

Type

arboreal

Adult Size

body 1.2-1.6 in; legspan to ~17 in

Growth Rate

medium

Native Region

East/Southern Africa

Temperament

shy; freezes or flees; communal-tolerant

Behavior

Webbing
BurrowingNo
Water DishRequired

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