Description
Chinese Hourglass Spider (Cyclocosmia sp.)
The Chinese Hourglass Spider is an extraordinary trapdoor spider best known for its remarkable hardened abdomen, which ends in a flat, intricately patterned disc resembling an ancient seal or hourglass. When threatened, the spider can use this specialised abdomen to block the entrance to its burrow, creating an effective defensive barrier. Secretive and unusual, Cyclocosmia species are fascinating display animals best suited to experienced invertebrate keepers.
Habitat
Chinese Hourglass Spiders are fossorial trapdoor spiders that spend the majority of their lives inside deep, silk-lined burrows.
- Enclosure: Secure terrestrial enclosure with plenty of vertical depth for burrowing
- Temperature: Approximately 22–26°C
- Humidity: Moderate to high, generally around 70–80%
- Decor: Cork bark, leaf litter, moss and other natural cover can be provided around the surface
- The environment should remain slightly moist without becoming saturated or waterlogged
- Good ventilation is important alongside suitable moisture levels
- Once an established burrow has been created, unnecessary disturbance should be avoided
Feeding
Chinese Hourglass Spiders are ambush predators that wait near the entrance of their burrow for passing prey.
- Diet: Small crickets, roaches and other appropriately sized live insects
- Juveniles: Offer small prey approximately 1–2 times per week
- Adults: Generally offer prey around once per week depending on size and body condition
- Prey can be introduced close to the burrow entrance to encourage natural hunting behaviour
- Remove uneaten prey, particularly if the spider may be preparing to moult
- Water droplets can occasionally be provided while avoiding excessive moisture
General Care
This species is primarily suited to keepers who appreciate natural behaviour rather than those looking for a frequently visible or handleable spider.
- Temperament: Secretive and defensive when disturbed
- Handling: Not recommended
- Activity: Primarily fossorial, spending most of its time underground
- Defence: Uses its distinctive hardened abdominal disc to plug and protect its burrow
- Adult Size: Relatively compact-bodied, although exact size varies between Cyclocosmia species
- Lifespan: Potentially several years, with females generally living considerably longer than males
- Maintenance: Avoid collapsing or unnecessarily disturbing established burrows during routine maintenance
Why Choose a Chinese Hourglass Spider?
- Incredible hourglass-like abdominal disc
- One of the most unusual-looking spiders in the hobby
- Fascinating trapdoor and ambush behaviour
- Remarkable natural burrow-blocking defence
- Compact enclosure requirements
- Excellent naturalistic display species
- Particularly rewarding for experienced invertebrate enthusiasts
With its extraordinary armoured abdomen, secretive lifestyle and fascinating trapdoor behaviour, the Chinese Hourglass Spider is one of the most unusual arachnids available to specialist invertebrate keepers.
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