Lichen Huntsman (Pandercetes sp.)

Juveniles (Unsexed) The Lichen Huntsman (genus Pandercetes ) is a world-class master of camouflage, famous for its ability to disappear completely against mossy or lichen-covered tree trunks. This species can change colours to reflect surrounding bark. they can even develop green colours to mimic moss. if you look at the photos we have of them. you'll see that some look darker, and some lighter.
Hunting Style: Unlike most spiders, they don't use webs. They are ambush predators that sit in "plain sight" all day, pouncing only when prey comes within range.
Habitat: Tropical rainforests in Northern Queensland (Australia), New Guinea, Sulawesi, and parts of Southeast Asia.
Venom: While they are venomous, they are generally not dangerous to humans . A bite might cause mild local pain or irritation but is not considered life-threatening. Behavior and Care: For those interested in them as pets (they are popular in the invertebrate hobby), they have specific needs:
Humidity: They require high humidity levels to survive, often requiring regular misting to drink.
Speed: They are exceptionally fast and are known "escape artists" due to their thin, flat bodies.
Parenting: Females are protective mothers, often seen guarding a well-camouflaged silk egg sac until the spiderlings emerge.



1. Enclosure Setup Orientation: Use a vertical (tall) enclosure rather than a wide one, as these spiders are arboreal and instinctively climb upwards. Decor (Crucial): To see their camouflage in action, provide a vertical "tree trunk" or a thick piece of Natural Cork Bark . If the bark is covered in moss or lichen, the spider will blend in perfectly. Escape Prevention: They are "escape artists" with extremely flat bodies that can fit through tiny gaps. Ensure your enclosure has a secure, fine-mesh lid . Substrate: Use a moisture-retaining base like Coco-Peat or sphagnum moss to help maintain humidity.
2. Environment & Climate Humidity: They require high humidity (60–80%) . Mist the enclosure lightly every 1–2 days; the spider will drink the water droplets off the walls or bark. Temperature: They thrive between 24°C and 28°C . They can tolerate lower temperatures, but it will significantly slow their growth rate. Ventilation: While they need humidity, they also require good airflow to prevent stagnant, "dank" conditions that can lead to mould.
3. Feeding & Handling Diet: Offer live insects like crickets, flies, or small roaches 2–3 times a week. The prey should be roughly 1/3 the size of the spider. Handling: Not recommended. They are incredibly fragile and can "bolt" faster than the human eye can follow. If you need to move them, gently guide them into a plastic container . Lifespan: Typically 1 to 2 years in captivity.