Phormingochilus

This genus comprises five accepted species, native to Borneo and Indonesia. All species are considered arboreal.

Genus and species: Phormingochilus hatihati

Common name: Borneo Purple Earth Tiger

Given name: Violeta

 Muller (2024) described this species in a comprehensive publication.

Source: Muller 2024

Source: Muller 2024

This species is found in Tammajarra, Polewali, Mandar, West Sulawesi, Indonesia. "Hati Hati" translated to pain or caution. This species is considered arboreal but will create burrows, especially when young. They are generally reclusive but when seen exhibit dark purple coloration with a cream carapace.

Habitat: secondary lowland rain forests and mango plantations. Makes burrows in knotholes and forks in trees and will stay close to the ground until adulthood.

Husbandry Notes:

Enclosure: 12x12x12

Sex: Female

Life stage: Sub-adult

Size: Approximately 4.25 inches

Growth: Molted towards the end of May, 2025. Has put on a little size

Disposition: A bit feisty but has not been aggressive

Eating habits: Have not witnessed a takedown yet

Misc: Periodically makes a night time appearance. Beautiful coloration.

Genus and species: Phormingochilus sp. sabah blue

Given name: Sulu

Found in the Sabah province of Borneo. They have beautiful blue and lavender coloration with orange hairs throughout. The can grow to 7 or 8 inches as adult females. This species is relatively new to the hobby and slings are available.

Habitat: Resides in trees amongst tropical rainforests.

Husbandry Notes:

Enclosure: 6x6x8

Sex: Undetermined

Life stage: Juvenile

Size: Approximately 3.75 inches

Growth: Steady

Disposition: Fast and somewhat skittish

Eating habits: Have not witnessed a takedown yet

Misc: Periodically makes a night time appearance. Starting to develop beautiful adult coloration.

Genus and species: Phormingochilus arboricola

Common name: Borneo Black

Given name: Sulu

This arboreal species may reach 7 inches in leg span. They have a dark to black body with slightly lighter stripes on the abdomen. Slings are generally available in the market.

Habitat: Resides in trees amongst tropical rainforests.

Husbandry Notes:

Enclosure: 12x12x18

Sex: Female

Life stage: Sub-adult

Size: Approximately 4.5 in

Growth:

Disposition:

Eating habits:

Misc: