This sheet is applicable to Deropeltis paulinoi and sp. "Masai Mara". Might be applicable to other Deropeltis spp. as well.
Housing:
Anything a gallon or larger should work for a starter culture of this genus, once they get going a 5-10 gallon setup will suffice as their permanent quarters. A inch or so of coconut fiber, sphagnum peat, potting soil, etc. as the substrate will work fine. A horizontal humidity gradient is recommended, about 50/50 (unless your ambient humidity is very high, in which case only keeping a quarter of the enclosure humid would probably be best). High airflow is very important to these species as well. Lots of hides in the form of vertically slanted bark, leaf litter, eggcrate or cardboard rolls are appreciated.
All life stages climb well, so a tight fitting lid and possibly a super slick climbing barrier such as silicone oil are advised. Adult males can fly but don't do so often.
Diet:
Dog/cat/fish/chick food, fruits and veggies make a good staple diet.
Temperature:
Temps in the 75-85F° range are optimal for breeding and growth.
Breeding/Life Cycle:
Adults live approximately 5-7 months, with males dying first. Females lay quite a few ooths, that they usually adhere to hides and cover with substrate. Said ooths take 2-3 months to hatch under optimal conditions, and the nymphs seem to take about 5-6 months to mature depending on temperature, food availability, etc..
They aren't very sensitive to filth buildups, pest outbreaks, etc., though lapses in care and period drying out can stop colonies in their tracks.
This genus is capable of releasing a very strong chemical defense fluid when sufficiently disturbed that can stain your skin for days, and almost certainly burns if it gets into cuts or mucus membranes.
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