Heteropoda boiei, often called the Lichen Huntsman, is a large and vividly patterned spider native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Sumatra, Borneo, and Java. This arboreal species is known for its impressive leg span, reaching up to 15 cm, and its striking coloration. Males often display shimmering purple and green tones, while females are larger and marked with bold, dalmatian-like spots that help them blend against lichen-covered bark.
 
Primarily nocturnal, these huntsman spiders spend their nights roaming tree trunks and branches in search of prey. They are exceptionally fast and skittish, earning a reputation among keepers for their “teleporting” movements. Unlike web-building spiders, H. boiei relies on stealth and speed to ambush insects, aided by sensitive hairs that detect vibrations rather than keen eyesight.
In captivity, they require tall enclosures with vertical climbing space, high humidity, and warm temperatures to mimic their rainforest habitat. Feeding can be sporadic, with individuals sometimes refusing food for extended periods, which is normal for the species.