Fastest Growing Tarantulas In the Hobby

[@TomsBigSpiders]

IMPORTANT: Although lists like this are fun, they are FAR from scientific. The spiders included in this video have been chosen by other hobbyists and myself as fast growers, but there are obviously MANY species that are not on the list that likely grow AS quickly if not MORE quickly. Obviously, growth rates may vary from spider to spider and from keeper to keeper, so if you have had faster or slower growth rates, feel free to share. There are also likely many obscure species that don't make the cut only because there aren't a lot of people keeping them. Folks tend to get defensive when a spider they adore doesn't make lists like this one, and I get it. But if there is a spider that you feel should have made the list and didn't, PLEASE chime in with the species and the growth rate you experienced with it. The video itself is only part of this becoming an educational resource; the other part is viewer comments. Thanks in advance!

[@RealMelodyBlue]

I can't have a M balfouri, I'm a beginner

[@jaysonhisula2775]

Honest opinion , i think it would be better if you just show more the tarantulas than you talking for like 10 minutes , its a tarantula vlog , not a celebrity in the making vlog

[@ThisWasATragedy]

@Melody’s Coloring Cafe you can totally have an M. balfouri even though you’re a beginner. They’re very easy going and beginner friendly. I got an OBT and a P. metallica as my first tarantulas and I did just fine.

[@pennyrockysmomma4445]

@@RealMelodyBlueI was thinking the same thing. I love the fact that they are communal, and their webbing fascinates me!!!

[@Dovietail]

Salmon pink birdeaters. Total exponential growth! Pinky fingernail to salad plate in 12 months--dinner plate in 18 months. Sheesh!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahahaha Mine grow so slowly! haha

[@didisaythat4230]

As a person that is only at this point, looking into the hobby, I think this guy has the best channel. I was wishing at one point that he made the leap towards a podcast only to find out that he already does. This guy is the bomb.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, thank you so much, Randy...I truly appreciate that! And, yes...I made that jump a few years ago. I'm glad that you found it!

[@kelvinengland3991]

Hey mate did you get a T yet?

[@didisaythat4230]

@@kelvinengland3991 sup, bro.. yeah I did. I've got 10 of them now lol

[@xplodinginsect4014]

​@@didisaythat4230Well, tell us what you got. Lol

[@didisaythat4230]

@@xplodinginsect4014 lol srry. My first order (fearnottarantulas)was a P. Irminia, Hapolopus sp. Columbia (large), and a G. Pulchra. Second order (micro wilderness)was C. Versicolor, 2 T. Albopilosum, and a P. Regalis. Third order (Kasey from the Tarantula forums) was G. Pulchripes, L. Parahybana, and Davus sp. Panama. All from slings. The Irminia is like 5" already. So 9 spiders not 10, srry. I'm planning on next getting a confirmed female Brachypelma of some kind.. probably Smithi.. just gotta keep my feelers out for one.

[@kentvikman1086]

And this is why I began keeping "true" spiders. In my experience, the T Domestica and E Atrica are explosive growers, with males reaching full mature size in little over a year. Now, as a Tarantula keeper I have three slow growing species and three species that are on this list just to diversify and spread some events evenly throughout the growth of those who put on size a little less frequently. Excellent video, Tom, but then again, I have learned not to expect any less from you. Stay safe and take care.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Kent! The thing that kept me away from the true spiders is the short lifespans. I'm used to my spiders living several years, so it's odd for me to have one mature and die in a year and a half. I DO love the fast growth, though, and I'm finally getting over that h hang up. Thanks so much! I hope all is well with you!

[@kelvinengland3991]

I kept a UK house spider I caught until it matured out as a male. It was brilliant to keep. A great hunter.

[@starnaito]

I have to agree with the T. albo. I got one as a gift at 1/4" and was told it was a G. pulchra. So you can imagine how surprised I was when she grew quickly and those curly hairs started to appear! I've had her about two and a half years now, and she's already reached adult size. I keep a lot of slow-growing New Worlds, so I was definitely not expecting her to grow up that fast.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! I'm glad that I reached out for feedback, as I never would have had the T. albo on. A lot of folks mentioned it! Even I get to learn things from these videos. Haha

[@tinabbaker37]

Lost a family member 2 days ago and 4 days after his birthday. Just explaining why I'm so hurt and sad. Never want you to think I'm just a pain in the butt for you. I don't mean to be. Atleast you know where I go to cheer up or help me get through very hard things. Yes,, y'all do help me that much. You make more of a difference in a life than you may realize.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Oh no...that's terrible, Tina. We are both so sorry to hear that. You will be in our thoughts. :(

[@RealMelodyBlue]

Tom always has the most beautiful and cute tarantulas 😍❣️. Tarantulas are like Pokemon, gotta catch em all, LoL 😂😆

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Melody...they truly are! haha

[@amandaz9762]

It is really interesting the differences of sizing between communal and individual setups for the M balfouri. I still need to add one to my baboon family. Next purchase, for sure! Another great video, Tom ❤❤

[@TomsBigSpiders]

You won't be disappointed, Amanda! Thanks so much!

[@cmreader]

I have one by Itself and it’s so slow growing. I’ve had it 3 years and it’s still 1.5”.

[@amandaz9762]

@@cmreader Do you keep your temps on the cooler side? Just curious 😉 It's fun to see how each individual compares with others. I've seen where the same species and same egg sack can vary so greatly in growth rates. It's intriguing.

[@cmreader]

@@amandaz9762 I would say my tarantula room is around 75. I keep a space heater in there during the cooler months. I’m in TN so it doesn’t get too crazy low.

[@taeviansworldofreptiles3828]

Wooooow that Indian Ornamental is GORGEOUS!!! And officially on my List!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Isn't she a beauty? Thanks, bud!

[@lauraclegg794]

She is very beautiful isnt she. I have a sling called Oreo & love her so much. Well I'm crossing my fingers Oreo is female so so I have her a long time. They are a stunning spider & a good pokie to start with xx

[@midwesternbass]

This is one of the best "fastest growers" videos out there. Will be sharing a link to this video whenever the question comes up on the forums or social media!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Connor! Thank you so much. I put a lot of thought into this before going for it, so I really appreciate that.

[@kirkvj8330]

Up

[@ItsSlyFox]

Great list and video as always Tom! The fastest growing spider in my collection was my omothymus violaceopes. They hit 6-7" in the first year and I got them as a sling.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! Thank you so much! Man, I thought that mine grew quickly...that's insane!

[@saulstein9560]

Love the Cannibal Corpse jacket my man, great band. And thank you for the amazing video as always.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

You've got great taste in music, Saul! :) Thanks!

[@tgoly84]

A bit off topic but, LOVE the Cannibal Corpse hoodie and your Metal Mix playlist. Throw some Jungle Rot in that mix, you wont be disappointed! Just found your channel today and am really enjoying it!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Oh, man...I didn't know that list was public! haha And I will definitely check them out...thank you!

[@larrybills1564]

Tom, I purchased a P. Regalia in June of 2020 at 3/4”. As of May she measured 5 1/4” doing the Pokie stretch on the side of her inclosure. I fed her one or two times a week with temperatures in the mid 70’s.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Larry! Man, that's awesome growth!

[@LayneLovesThings]

Thanks for all your hard work, Tom! I’m picking up my first T’s early next week all because of the confidence your education has given me. Nervous, but very excited!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! Awwwww, that's awesome! Congrats on getting into the hobby! I'm so glad that I was helpful. 🙂

[@sevenn7pure]

What are you getting? Just curious. I would guess your getting a new world? (unless your diving into the deep end of the pool right away 🤣😂.) I would recommend the Grammostola Pulchripes common name Chaco Golden Knee. They do get pretty big though and can hit the 8" mark front leg to back leg, but they are pretty mild mannered for a spider. They are also beautiful with yellow/gold, black, and brown colors. I'm actually rehousing one tonight as I found some mold 😑, and it's about time to move it into a bigger enclosure anyways. I've never gotten a threat pose or had hairs kicked by either of mine. (I have 2. Had 1 about 2 years and the other probably about a year) They are also pretty hearty which is a good thing for first time owners.

[@LayneLovesThings]

@@sevenn7pureI got bit by the addiction bug real bad lol I knew it would happen so I waited to start buying until I was ready and now I just bought sling number 14…. G. Pulchripes is in there for sure

[@sevenn7pure]

@@LayneLovesThings lol oh wow that's awesome. I'm up to 13 again 😊.

[@ThomasTheArachnerd]

I’m low-key super happy that LP was in he list. Mine just melted & still hits its prey like a truck. Super hyped to see her get thicc 🤩

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Krishen! Yeah, I KNEW that one was going to get voted in. haha

[@arupian666]

Tom, +1 for the T. albo... this is SUCH a weird coincidence. I got mine in mid Feb, this year, and as soon as I housed her, she buried herself. I seriously haven't seen her above ground since... prey items would disappear, she'd dump molts above ground, but I never caught her out....until just this last friday... I know that she had recently molted, there's a tiny "window" that I can see into her burrow and could make out a molt... anyway, it was late in the evening, I had SpideyCAM on and noticed movement in her enclosure... I went in the room with my red light and literally said out loud "Good god, you're HUGE !" hahahah... she's in a 4" x 4" enclosure and she almost 3/4 filled it as she stretched out right in the center. She was about 1/4" when I got her. Someone needs a rehouse... and soon.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! I was shocked that so many people mentioned them as fast growing. That's honestly great to know for when I recommend them as beginner species. And, wow...yours sounds like a great grower! Thanks for sharing!

[@wollewolf9863]

My Nicaraguan Albo is around the same age yours, its molted 2-3X but barely grow. Maybe the Hondurans are the fast growers

[@arupian666]

@@wollewolf9863 Hmmmm, mine was sold to me as a Nicaraguan... maybe, as Tom says, it's environmental/feeding... Mine is kept at around 75-80 degrees and I feed my slings every 3 days...

[@munsterph]

Similar experience here, definitely a fast secretive (loves its burrow for many months on end - just like yours ) grower. Thinking back it may have started growing fast after it was rehoused to a -at the time - relatively large (15cm x15cm) enclosure with enough dirt to bury itself - before then it was visible most of the time) Easily overtook the G Emilia and the G. Pulchripes both of which had quite a headstart (but these haven't noticably grown at all in the same period)

[@arupian666]

@@munsterph Since her last molt, she's had a 180 in her character. Don't know if she's just big enough now to be more confident, but since I rehoused her she's always out and about. I put her in a 12x8x6 acrylic enclosure, with a hide. She HAS burrowed under her hide quite extensively and always and I mean always eats her meals down there, but once she's done, she comes right back out and wanders around her home being utterly badass !! I LOVE that little spider.

[@fajardozacharyroec1813]

I agree with the LP. Got mine for about 1/4 on an inch to 4.7 inches in just about 10 months

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Wow, that is VERY impressive!

[@denisewhitney4819]

I agree with the pumpkin patch for sure. My male hooked out in less than a year. I wish my pulchra would be a faster growing species. I haven't gotten a molt in over a year from either of my juveniles (about 2")

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Someone showed me pics of their G. pulchra molts, and it went from 1/2" to 4" in a year. I'm still confused by that one, Denise. haha

[@Mindofteagan]

Definitely got some ideas for new species. I’ve tried to stick with beginner friendly, but I feel like I’m ready to spread my wings a tad. I love the Psalmopoeus genus, and after watching your care and husbandry, I feel like this is one I should be adding sooner rather than later. Great video, as always!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Ashleigh! That's awesome! I'm sure you'll do just fine with them. :) Thank so much!

[@corlyscrawlies]

I started with the P. irminia, my first T, ordered it blind, did some research, i feel comfortable after watching many videos on managing it.. got her about a week ago.. amazing spider, great feeder..

[@LadyKakizaki]

Hey Tom! Great video as always. My fastest growers are probably Acanthoscurria geniculata, Sericopelma sp. Santa Catalina, and Theraphosa apophysis. I picked up my A. geniculata as about a 3/8" sling in about March of 2023 and as of October 2023 it's at least 3 inches. My Santa Catalina I got as around a 1" sling in I believe early August 2023 and it's already pushing 2.5 inches. They put on a lot of size with each moult from what I've experienced. I don't think I even need to explain T. apophysis but it's gone from a 1.25" sling (purchased in December of 2022) to a 5.5 inch adult in under a year, with another moult any day now. Honourable mention Nhandu chromatus: I've had this specimen since I think late July 2023 as a .25" sling and while it moults frequently it is still quite small, between .75-1". It is worth mentioning that I've found all my Ephebopus to be fast growers across the board, although they slow down a bit once they get to young adulthood. I see you listed your "Tarantula formicabus" and the general "Cyctopus" genus as a fast grower (love the chapters xD) and while I agree about the cancerides growing quickly up to 4 or 5 inches, I would love to share my experience with P. auratus. I received this specimen as a .75ish inch sling in January of 2022. The moult dates for it are 1/20/22, 3/6/22, 1/6/23, and 4/9/23. It is maybe around 3 inches now. In comparison to something like Brachypelma or Aphonopelma I suppose this is very fast, it still was much slower than I was expecting especially in comparison to P. cancerides. I know you did mention your auratus was rather slow growing so I am just adding my experience. Keep up the awesome work Tom! - Charlotte

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Chantal!

[@Milkingtarantulas]

My fastest growing T was Neoholothele incei.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm amazed more folks didn't pick it, as mine were pretty fast growing too.

[@bobbiscrittercave2348]

Mine were, too - I got a couple of tiny slings from Eerie Arachnids, and in 1.5 years, the male had hooked out!

[@Milkingtarantulas]

@@TomsBigSpiders My male grown to full adult in one and a half year and died 6 months after. Unfortunately dwarf species have a really short lifespan.

[@houseofinvertebrates2869]

Mine as well. Maled out very quick.

[@Traytay0612]

Neoholothele incei would’ve been at the top of my list. I’ve had 3 total and all 3 grew faster than an other tarantula species I’ve kept. Their growth rate is insanely fast.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

That's a great one, Tracy. I agree that they grow quite fast!

[@Cabbage-gt2su]

Oh yeah, I have one myself. Grew almost 2 inches in about 4 months from a sling. Amazing growth

[@mojavered1273]

@ 21 Cabbage dayuuuum that is fast lol

[@billgarbutt7844]

You are a brave soul coming out with a vid like this.The pitch folks and torches will be out for ya,lol.Its right up there with the need for constantly full water bowls. You did the disclaimer,but hope you have your thick skin on.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Bill! Hahahaha Honestly, if people get upset about this, they need to get a life. 😁 And so far, so good! Thanks!

[@AdsArachnids]

The T.albo totally slipped my mind. I too had a really fast growth rate. I bought a confirmed female juvie and within 6 months she was a proper chonk after packing in 4 moults during that time. Kept in the mid 70s but a really good eater. Super interesting video.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! Man, why did mine grow so slowly? haha That species in particular blew my mind, as mine were not fast growers. Totally cool hearing what other people experience though! Thanks!!!

[@AdsArachnids]

@@TomsBigSpiders it's a weird one. My H.devamatha under the same conditions has barely grown in the same timescale. Goes to show the variance from specimen to specimen despite general experiences being able to give you an overall benchmark.

[@shirinst.laurent2161]

I'm really glad that T.apophysis made the list. My girl is 3 now and has a DLS of 7 inches.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, these guys grow like weeds! :)

[@trevorfornash23]

I’ve watched you for years. I love your channel. You can definitely tell you are a teacher. Keep doing what makes you great sir

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Trevor...I really appreciate it!!!

[@Dovietail]

LOVE my tripeppis! Glad you featured.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

My pleasure, Gloria...they are awesome spiders!

[@billstokesbary6143]

@Tom Moran I know it may be an anomaly but I acquired a .5 inch Phormictopus atrichomatus and a .5 inch Phormictopus cancerides about 4 months ago. The P.cancerides has been growing quickly as expected and is sitting at about 2 inchs with both slings molting within 12 hours of each other over the last 2 molts. The P.atrichomatus is where the anomaly comes in. Both are kept in the low 70s, both fed a med cricket once a week. The P.atrichomatus molted and went from .5 inch to over 1.5 inch, I was astounded. 2 months later they both molted again and the P.atrichomatus went to 3 inches with a red abdomen and the body shape of an adult.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Bill! Man, that is absolutely bonkers! Mine grew quickly, but nothing like that. It amazes me how different the growth rates can be from spider to spider.

[@zulemazahir666]

It was surprising hearing any Grammastolas being on the list. Also really happy to hear the O. Violaceopes on here since I've been planning on getting one my next purchase. Awesome video as usual Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Zulema! Yeah, that's not a genus you equate with fast growth. I WILL say that my G. iheringi does grow rather quickly, though. Thanks!

[@angielovesowls]

I have been anxiously waiting for another video from you and this one is absolutely fantastic !

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Angie! This one was a LONG time coming!

[@pikakill4704]

My lasiodora difficilis was 1/2 inch when I got him but grew to 3.5 in one year. He’s at a room temperature if 75 degrees at all times. Fed 1 meal per week. He’s now 5 inches at just under 2 years of age.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Pika! Man, that's great growth! Mine took about 2 years to reach that size. haha

[@mikethespider8828]

One of my fastest growers ever (relative to their adult size) wasn't mentioned: C. elegans! :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Mike! Ahhhh...good one!

[@lauraclegg794]

They are adorable arent they. Mine is growing fairly quick too, I have a little juvenile. I love feeding her because she looks so little & sweet but has a fantastic food response. I dropped 2 baby red runner babies in by mistake & she had killed them both in a second lol xx

[@dboykinchen88]

what a cool list! my pumpkin patch always shocks me. i've raised a few that seem to grow fast, but this one has to be a male. this thing just won't stop growing lol. cool video Tom

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Damien! Thanks so much, bud! Yeah, mine always grew great as well.

[@thesilkkradle9558]

This is the 5th time I’ve watched this recording. Love it

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Ha! That's awesome! Thanks!

[@bronnie8661]

Lovely video and beautiful spiders! I think I want a nhandu tripepii! Also for a laugh u should consider listing the dumbest tarantula species. Just idiots with no thoughts really bringing the whole concept of natural selection into question. I don’t have many spiders but I really feel by seemanni could have a good shot at getting on that list. Also I’d love to see a list of Billy’s favourite tarantulas!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Bronnie! Thank you so much! You should definitely get one. :) Hahaha That would be hysterical. And I could see if Billie would be interested in doing that. haha

[@Violet-Lily]

Finally managed to pick up my first Pamphobeteus a few days ago, a couple of machala slings. Can't wait to see them grow!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Violet! Congrats on your P. machala! They should grow quickly for you!

[@darcystcorner2580]

My three fastest growing Poecilotheria Regalis- went from 1/2” to 5” in a year and 3 months P Irminia matures out from 2” sling in a year pamphobetus sp platyomma- 3” to 7” in a year I have 6 sp of Poecilotheria and they all grow super fast, they pack on the size with each molt

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Darcy! Yup, I can't argue with any of those! :)

[@juanbaltasarmartin3457]

It´s incredible to notice how most of the faster growing species are old worls. And when you think about it makes a lot of sense. Because they have to leave that vulnerable sling stage to be able to have a chance at surviving, just like their mood and threat postures

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Juan! Yeah, I've also thought about that and came to the same conclusion!

[@juanbaltasarmartin3457]

@@TomsBigSpiders Thanks a lot for the reply Tom, You are my favorite youtuber and tarantula keeper and it means a lot to me. Keep up the great work!

[@dankauffman8568]

Super video Tom ! Wasn't expecting T albo or any Gramostolas to be there but , mine are putting on size like all get out . I picked up a P Striata almost two years ago and a P metallica less than one . Both were about the same size , about one inch . The Gooty has overtaken the Mysore by far . Thank you again !

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Dan! I honestly wasn't expecting that either! A lot of people mentioned the T. albo, though, so I had to include it! My first P. metallica took forever to reach 4". Several of the communal ones hit that in a year. Thanks so much!

[@kyleshanehorner6319]

Hey Tom, I appreciate how you ended up deciding on how to quantify "fastest growing". Including male maturity speed as a factor was a good idea too. I don't know how to comment on your podcasts specifically so I thought I could ask here. I was waiting for Pelinobius muticus in your 3 part collection series and I believe it wasn't included. I know you have 2 because I'm a hard core fan of yours and that spider. I wish for a episode on it one day!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Kyle! Thanks so much, bud! As for the P. muticus, both matured male a couple years ago and have since passed on. I DID get some footage of one of the males, as I was going to put together a proper husbandry video on them, but I accidentally deleted the footage of it. My hope is to pick up another soon and raise it up.

[@kyleshanehorner6319]

@@TomsBigSpiders so in ten years 😆

[@zacharyhampton8415]

Hey Tom, i was just listening to the pod cast right after you rehoused your p. Metallica communal and i thought i would tell you about a technique i stumbled on moving my p. Victori. I couldn't see it in the tunnel so i shined a bright flashlight under the tunnel and discovered i could move the spider where i wanted it by offering a dark spot and shining a light. It has worked great for a few rehousings now.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Zachary...thanks for chiming in! I've used dark spots before with rehousings myself. They will usually retreat to them, so it can make it easier to ensure that the spider doesn't bolt out. Thanks so much!

[@Cattrix999]

Nice video Tom! I've only had my Ts since February iirc, and got 3 sub adults but then bought 2 slings, 1.5 inches , an LP and a P. Irminia. So far the Lp. molted just a few days ago and has not dug himself out, but I can see the molt at the side of the tunnel through the tiny little hole that is still unblocked. I am so excited for when Griddy, (Hagrid if it turns out male or Hag if it's female ) come out so I can see how much he/she has grown.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Congrats on the molt, and I love the names! Hopefully, he/she comes out to eat soon!

[@gutz323]

You got that cool T-shirt on again, Lol! Another cool video too!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahahaha I love this shirt...thanks!

[@dustystotler1376]

Love it when you drop a video!!! I must have missed the poll on KZbin. I did chime in on Facebook. My T. albo matured out in 18 months and from leg to leg he is almost 7 inches. Trying find somebody local that has a female to breed. After seeing this I am definitely getting a LP. After seeing some proper care videos for an OBT (nudge nudge) I have came to the conclusion of getting one of these as well. Plenty of room and something that opens from the side. My C. versicolor has almost outgrown it's enclosure and will be perfect for an OBT.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Dusty! I posted the question on the Community page. That's bonkers growth from your T. albo! And that is awesome that you're considering an OBT and an LP. I think those species were my third and fifth tarantulas ever. :)

[@joelmed219]

I kept waitin waitin waitin on hearing harpactira pulchripes!! Truly in shock it wasn’t on either list as mine easily lapped most my other species but 3-5 molts. Got mine about .75 inch and within the last 6 months already pushing 4 inches !! Really amazed with this species as it quickly became my personal favorite in my collection

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Joel! Wow, that is a fast growing one. I've raised four, and the males grew fairly fast, but my females were more slow growing. I DID have a couple people mention the H. pulchripes when I asked what their fast growers were, so apparently you're not alone.

[@bobbibuttons8730]

Ahhh Tom, you have the most gorgeous tarantulas. Each of them have something lovely about them.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Bobbi! Thank you so much!

[@TheGlssr60]

My experience with raising tarantulas isn't that far reaching but I'm on my third A. Geniculata and they have all grown REALLY fast. My L. Parahybana has also done the same.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'm glad that you're getting the fast growth rates, Gary!

[@TheGlssr60]

@@moe4561 This might sound like BS but I assure you it's not. My LP was a speck when I got it on Feb 8, 2022. It's somewhere between 3-4" right now. And I have not power fed it. Can't wait to see if it sets some kind of record. :)

[@TheGlssr60]

@@moe4561 I did not take your comment in that fashion so no worries. But thank you for the consideration. I just know there's a lot of people who for some reason or another just HAVE to say, "Mine is bigger than yours." I'm not one of those. However, my gut is probably bigger than yours. lol

[@Billbeaux]

Hey Tom! Any word on the video/material about crickets being "dirty" and/or possibly carrying nematodes? I'd sure love to hear what you have to say about the topic more in depth! Maybe a video on the subject or even a video on how you keep your crickets/other feeders? Thanks again! Great video as always

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! I'm still gathering data on it, and I have a lead on some promising news in terms of nematodes. Hopefully, I'll have something by the end of the summer. I DID do a podcast where I talked a bit about it; that was a few months ago. Thanks!

[@Billbeaux]

@Tom Moran Awesome!! I look forward to the video and I will definitely check out the podcast on your website! On a side note: can you start including more links in the bio to where you get your enclosures and other materials from? I would like to get on your level in terms of care for my pets and I figured the best way to do that is through emulation! Thanks for any and all info that you share with us

[@rebelbaron7003]

Really awesome video Tom. Very timely video for me as I struggle to get my feet into this hobby. As I wear contact lenses everyday,the thought of getting urticating hairs on my fingers and touching my eyeballs to get them in has me concerned. Likewise, the Old World's speed and defensive nature mentioned by you all had me thinking I should go with New Worlds first. This video helped me a lot because I love the Smithi's. One of my friends had one and of course Indiana Jones Raiders movie. By the same token,the word is painfully slow growth. But great video,touched all the bases.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Randall! Thanks so much, bud! I wouldn't worry too much about the hairs. I've been working with new worlds for years, and I have had very few issues with them. And when I did have an encounter, it was usually due to my stupidity. :)

[@vukpik]

My L.P. was raised from ½ to 7 inches in around 2 years. She is now 9 inches and 9 years old

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, that's fast! I have one that is pushing 7 years and is only about 7 inches or so. The other hit 8.5" in about 6 years.

[@vukpik]

@@TomsBigSpiders yea last two molts combined only got her about an inch more legspan, but the carapace and fangs are huuuge, such a bulky tank taking adult rodent with zero effort

[@georgecardiff1946]

Brilliant video Tom, really enjoyed that one, i wasn't surprised by some of your viewers choices, the three id pick from my collection are as follows, T.albopilosus, P.murinus and Acanthoscuria.geniculata ,so well done again Tom on putting out another wonderful video.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, George! Thanks so much! I was totally floored by T. albo myself, but apparently a lot of people have fast growing ones.

[@olgabahirkina1286]

I got a LP a few months ago. She's molted 3 times already and isn't stopping. I don't even power feed her as much, but the energy of this ball of instincts...

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Olga! Man, I wish mine had grown that quickly!

[@houseofinvertebrates2869]

I wish my Suntiger was growing fast!! Great video man! Happy Keeping!!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Mine sling is currently growing quite quickly, but my adult female grew more slowly. Thanks!

[@lucnadeau2821]

The T. albopilosus I have took 7+ years to reach 5". Acquired as 1/4" in 2010, only by 2018 had it really reached a massive size. Keeping it cooler and feeding sparingly obviously had an effect on its growth rate. I don't have any real fast growers as of yet, but C. cyaneopubescens, A. geniculata and L. parahybana are definitely on my wish lists. As for slow growers, any CB Aphonopelma interests me, along with various Brachypelma and Grammostola. Stay safe and thanks for sharing :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Luc! Yeah, my T. albos have all been pretty slow growing. My Aphonopelma species may be the slowest growing tarantulas that I keep. Hope all is well...and thanks!

[@tarantuland342]

My experience is similar, particularly with nhandu chromatus as well as psalmopeus pulcher and cambridgei growing extremely fast. I have kept 4 M Balfouris together since September but they haven't grown much although I rarely see them. In 9 months they've each put on maybe a 1/2 inch. Grammastola Actaeon is also a surprisingly fast grower, and a subadult 4-5" Boehmei I have has molted twice in the past 3-4 months. My first spider was an LP sling and almost two years later, it is still only around 2".

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Wow, that's insane about your M. balfouri. Mine grew like weeds! The ones that I raised separately grew much more slowly. That's really good to know that not all communal ones have the fast growth. All of my LPs grew quite slowly, so you're not alone there. Thanks for chiming in!

[@CricketsMa]

Be still, my poor, acquisitive, heart! ❣️You WILL live without another tarantula.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Suzanne! Hahahahaha

[@1968tmb]

It's funny how different people can keep the same tarantula species and get very different growth rates. I got a 1/4" B. Hamorii a year and a half ago and she's now 3" while I had heard the growth rate was painfully slow. I loved the video!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Toni! And sometimes in almost the same conditions. It's so odd! And that growth rate for a B. hamorii is bonkers! hahaha Thanks, Toni!

[@jamesprice7470]

Great video Tom,my p irminia has grown fast and my t blondi.the phormictopus sp south hispaniola has now got colours bought has a sling.and also my pamphobeteus cascada was a sling now sub adult.and my pamphobeteus platyomma has put some size on.my pokies have grown fast but my pterinochilus murinas hasnt grown very fast.might be just mine.my young female chilobrachys fimbriatus hasnt grown much at all in fact it's been a while since she last molted.my p cambridgi has grown fast with each molt.thanks for sharing Tom.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, James! I agree with you on all the ones that you mentioned. My C. fimbriatus grew at a medium pace overall.

[@Xiporah]

I agree with T. albopilosus and P. muranis! I got mine from Fear Not in October 2020 as teeny slings and both are already pushing two inches.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Xiporah! Man, I'm glad that I asked as so many people are reporting that. Wow...thank you!

[@kevinpoe8137]

Now you have to do a list of the slowest growing tarantulas in the hobby

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Kevin! Right now, it would be all of my Aphonopelma species! Haha

[@SwissCowboy87]

@@TomsBigSpiders M.Balfouris

[@mully107]

@@SwissCowboy87 they are on this fastest list

[@maxhamilton8204]

Aphonopelma all, Grammostola rosea, Brachypelma smithi. I have 9 years old smithi male still not adult. The rosea eat once every two months if I am lucky. Aphonopelma almost getting smaller by every molt. Those are terrible species. I love them. 😂

[@conniehalvorsen5652]

Thanks for the video . As beginners the information you get is not always great . But you have always given great input on the T's that you no and always very truthful about what you no and don't no . Thank You.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Connie! Thank YOU for the kind words and for taking the time to comment!

[@fullonsociopath]

Awesome video. Thanks for posting. Lots of food for thought.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! Man, thanks so much. This was a lot of fun to put together.

[@amicaaranearum]

I keep mine on the cooler side (upper 60s) for my comfort -- I don't have a dedicated "tarantula room" -- and feed less frequently. Of the species I have raised from slings or small juveniles, I would say these are my fastest growers: • _Acanthoscurria geniculata_ • _Idiothele mira_ • _Neoholothele incei_ • _Omothymus schioedtei_ • _Poecilotheria regalis_ • _Psalmopoeus cambridgei_ • _Psalmopoeus irminia_

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Amica...great list! Thank you for chiming in!!!

[@krystiansiara107]

Tom I agree with you 100% as to the whole Psalmopoeus gene I have it all. They are available on the market and each of them grows really fast, and they are one of my favorite tarantulas

[@TomsBigSpiders]

LOVE Psalmopoeus, Krystian! Gorgeous and fast-growing...you can't go wrong!

[@wollewolf9863]

Hey Tom, top notch video again. And stunning T´s as always you have there!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Wolle!

[@theflamminghotwotsit]

Great video as you say there's lots of variables to this subject but I think you got the list spot on 👍

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! Man, thank so much. At least folks can see the video, read the comments, and get an idea of which ones might grow quickly. :)

[@Hoxter1993]

That's pretty interesting. My 2 P. atrichomatus slings have molted second time not too long ago. Generally, they're growing really slowly compared to all other slings I'm keeping right now (P. irminia, P. victori, P. reduncus, M. mesomelals and T. ockerti).

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Hoxster! Someone in the comments said that his P. ateichomatus hit 4" in less than a year! It's so interesting how different the growth rates can be! Thanks for chiming in!

[@lindabriggs5118]

How you doing Tom!? Great video! At least it gives me something to think about. Love the pokies but still don't think I'm ready to graduate to old worlds yet. But there are a number on this list I may think about for the future. My t. albopilosus looks like she's ready to molt soon because her abdomen went from pinkish tan to dark all over in about 48 hrs. My g. pulchripes molted last month and went from 3/4" sling to 1 1/2" DLS and I went 'Whoa!" when I opened the container (emergency rehouse!). But I am like a mother hen watching my t. albopilosus waiting to molt. Im excited. Anyway, hope you had a great Father's Day last week. Stay safe and dry. 😆 🤣

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Linda! Thanks so much. Pokie will be around when you are ready for one. 🙂 Hopefully, your T. albo molts for you soon. And I had an awesome father's day... thank you!

[@hayleysullivan287]

Great video again Tom .... My T. Also has molted 4 times since I got it in feb this year .... my P. Pulcher has also doubled in size since I got it in March

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Hayley! Man, why did my T. albo grow so slowly? hahaha

[@hayleysullivan287]

@@TomsBigSpiders haha .... glad you made sense of my auto correct typo 🤣

[@michaelsiers402]

Gotta love a fast growing big tarantula! Thanks Tom ,good content 🖒🕷

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Michael! :)

[@gredarthd5292]

Hey Tom I have to say that you give the best information on the web, I love your video's because it helped me to pick my first T's and how to take care of them. So all I can say is Thank You very very much for your hard work :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Gredarth D! Thank you so much...I truly appreciate that!!!

[@JarlJohan]

You want some fast growing tiny males? Heterothele gabonensis/ villosela. I bought 2 of each and within 8 months one of the H gabonensis moulted out male. And its so smal! We are talking "straining my eyes to see the hooks and boxing gloves", they are house spider smal. The fully grown male is smaller then a fresh T stirmi sling.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Ahhhhh...I forgot about the H. villosela! My male did the exact same thing. Good one!!!

[@rkhnd51]

Thanks, Tom. That was enjoyable.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you very much!

[@lynnettecook6973]

Any idea why the Baboon's have horns, do you know what purpose it serves? Just curious. The giant Brazilian Blonde is on my list. Come mid July St. Louis is hosting a super reptile show and I'm going to be looking for one.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I honestly have not idea what use they could have! And fingers crossed that you find one! :)

[@colb6171]

Thanks again for another intelligent video, consise and to the point. As a side issue my Grammostola rosea buried itself & moulted in February hasn't surfaced or fed and tonight it moulted again. Have you ever experienced this.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much! As for what you're describing, they can sometimes molt again after a molt if something went wrong. It does not happen often at all though.

[@aquasian21]

Hi Tom! Fab vid! It’s so interesting hearing from yourself and other hobbyists. Glad I’m not alone with my top my 3 lol Think I’ll need to add a H colombia to my collection in the future since they can be such good growers!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Sian! This was a fun one for me because some of the feedback was shocking to me! My H. colombias all looked like little adults within a year. :)

[@aquasian21]

@@TomsBigSpiders yeh I’m so glad it wasn’t just me saying t albop 😂 Oh I can’t wait to get one!

[@JRadForReal]

Great list! Not sure if I have an oddity, but I've had my LP from EWL for a year now and it is only 1"!!!! I hope she picks up haha.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Jared! Mine grew about that slowly, too. haha

[@JRadForReal]

@@TomsBigSpiders I couldn’t believe how long it took to molt! She was in premolt for like 2.5 months. Confused the hell out of me 😂😂😂

[@goldpieceleo]

Thank you for this video man. Now I know why some tarantulas of the same species don't grow too much.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

You're very welcome! Thanks so much.

[@jamguzzler8342]

My P. Machala grew crazy fast, so far about 4 inches DLS in about 7 months. Lovely species, and very fun and pretty.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Jam! Wow, that is fast growth!

[@Latrodectus_vv_]

I had my male Omothymus violaceopes mature in about 7 months. Which was unreal to me! I had him since he was a sling. My temps in my room are around 80-85 degrees year round though.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, it would definitely be those higher temps! My males took about 14 months or so with temps in the lower 70s!

[@johnschmidt1439]

Very well done man. My Filipuspino Wifeiga grew fast but I believe is a dwarf species

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, John! I will have to check that one out!

[@irestar6]

We now enjoy counting how many spiders that we can see out and about behind you! Spotted 6 tonight.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahahaha I have to watch it back and see who was out! Haha

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks, Mel!

[@irestar6]

@@TomsBigSpiders himself has now cracked! WOOHOO! He was fascinated by your blue Tarantulas, name gone from my head this moment. But great progress!

[@gab3963]

Two years ago or so I got a “H. minax” that I never saw. One day I saw it’s burrow and it was easily 4”-5”. Transferred it and got a picture- turns out it was a Chilobrachys sp but hit that size in 6mons or so

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Man, that's some awesome growth, Gab! And sorry to hear that you got the wrong spider!

[@pattymccallum6924]

Another excellent video, Tom! I really enjoyed it.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Patty !

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you so much, Patty!

[@pattymccallum6924]

@@TomsBigSpiders You're welcome.

[@robbiestalkingts]

Great video nice to see all my picks were on the list, I didn't pick phormictopus tbh as mine have been dead slow but its probably due the the UK temperatures I mean I watched you talk about the bayahibe the other day and noticed yours is already double the size of mine..... Mines still comfortable in the vile from when I got it.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, bud! Thanks so much! Wow, that's insane! We'll have to talk about that when we make our collab. At least I can top you in growth! Hahaha 😉

[@robbiestalkingts]

@@TomsBigSpiders yes it is absolutely insane I genuinely think its the totally different climates as my dominican purple, atrichromatus, cancerides and bayahibe are all exactly the same haven't molted at all, and all still teeny tiny slings and I've had them all 7-8 months

[@gutz323]

I bought 4 slings 7 months ago for the first time. They was all around 1cm or less. The T. Albopilosum has grown the largest at over 2 inches, my L. Klugi isn't far behind. My G. Pulchripes is about an inch (which is what I expected) but my N. Chromatus has grown far slower than I thought, she isn't even an inch yet, even though I was expecting the Nhandu genus to be the faster of the 4, but like you said, I guess all spiders can have a different metabolism even from the same egg sac.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello! Man, a LOT of folk have the fast growing T. albos! As for Nhandu, my N. chromatus was a bit slower growing as well. That's said, many folks said that their grew quickly. Oh well! Haha

[@BridgwaterM5Travelodge]

Hi Tom! Firstly i love youtr channel and have been watching for a while now. ty so much for all your advice. Anyway i've FINALLY bought my first Tarantula, well 2 actually but i'm worried about the Brachypelma Emilia? She just wont eat and shows no interest when we offer her a cricket? The T Albo is fine and eats constantly! Could the Emilia be in pre molt? If not what am i doing wrong? Ty x Angela.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hello, Angela! How long have you had her for? They can take a little while to settle in after being rehomed. Also, she could definitely be in premolt. Is she fairly plump? If so, I definitely wouldn't worry.

[@apophisprime7135]

I didn't think they would grow fast but my GBBs are surprising me right now. A couple of them are keeping up with my A. Geniculatas. I wouldn't believe it if I didn't see it. I also find it interesting that half of them want to live like arboreals and half of them want to live like terrestrials. Half have small webs and half have so much webbing that the entire enclosure is webbed. They are all kept exactly the same way. There are no absolutes with any tarantulas.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Nope, there really aren't.

[@lauraclegg794]

In my collection my fastest growers are my 2 Psalmopoeus. I really love the genus & am enjoying them so much. I have a Cambridgei & an Irminia. My Obt slings seem to be growing quick also I'm also very surprised by my 2 Brachypelma, I thought they were very slow growers. I've had my Emilia & Boehmei for 4 months & they have both moulted twice in that time. My Tripepii is growing very fast too xx

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Laura! Wow, you are getting some great growth rates for those Brachys! Are they larger slings? I've found that they grow a bit more quickly after the 1" mark. :)

[@lauraclegg794]

My Emilia is bigger but my Bohemei was only like 1.5 cm when I got him. He is around 3cm now, he's a really brave sling too. My Emilia is more shy xx

[@danieledwards4274]

Perfect vid Tom! My hap sp that you bred I got from Tanya grew and matured to male in under 18 months. And my Lp hooked out in 19 months!!! I've slowed down feeding and heating lol.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Daniel! Awwww, man...I wish that you got a lady! And that's insane about the LP...mine grew so slowly. Hahaha

[@GargantuanD]

Hi Tom, do you have a Stromatopelma Chalceatum? I was looking for a vid, but couldn't find one :)

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Sadly, I do not yet. I definitely plan to get one, though.

[@MOONOVERMIAMI]

Hello great video information Tom

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thanks so much, Moon!

[@cesarflores3980]

This list just made me add a few other Ts welp! Also awesome video/s Tom!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hahaha Thank you, Cesar!

[@conchitamay4859]

AWESOME babies. Thank you Tom for your expertise

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hi, Conchita! Thank you so much!

[@cmreader]

Hey Tom! I agree with the pumpkin patch. My male completed his life cycle in only 2 years. My pamp. Cf insignis is a monster. He went from not even a half inch to being mature in 2.5 years! When he passes I’ll get an accurate measurement but he’s gotta be pushing 8”. My slowest growing is my g. Rosea. I’ve had it 3 years and it’s maybe 1/2”. I wanna poke my eyes out it’s growing so slow hah!

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Hey, Cynthia! Yeah, mine have all grown quite quickly. A friend of mine had a male mature within 10 months, which is bonkers. I have a little G. rosea that I got about 7 years ago at .3" or so. She is now a whopping 1.5" haha

[@cmreader]

@@TomsBigSpiders oh gosh! It looks like I may be having a small baby for a while.

[@helenpatterson5616]

Another fantastic video. Thank you Tom x

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Thank you, Helen!

[@jasonweber4866]

Well this was an unexpected and welcome surprise! Prelude to the podcast?

[@TomsBigSpiders]

I'd been working on this one for a while. I actually did the podcast version in January! :) www.buzzsprout.com/148967/7218325-the-fastest-growing-tarantulas-in-my-collection.mp3?download=true

[@jasonweber4866]

@@TomsBigSpiders ahhh yes, i remember it now. Guess I'll have to give it another listen.

[@rich-pt9jt]

awesome videos and podcast. I'm new to the hobby and you are feeding my new obsession. Thank you.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Welcome to the hobby! I'm so glad that this stuff is helpful to you!

[@eb-pe8xg]

I'm not surprised to see Psalmopoeus genus on this list. My four (now juvenile size after 7-months) seemed to nearly double in size every time the molt. The P. ecclesiasticus and P. pulcher have been the fastest growing.

[@TomsBigSpiders]

Yeah, mine have all grown like weeds! :)