Mygalomorphae - Tarantulas

Exotic Tarantula Keeping: Classifications, Biology, and Husbandry Requirements

• Terrestrial Species (e.g., genera Brachypelma, Grammostola, Tliltocatl): In nature, they inhabit the ground surface or utilize natural shelters under rocks and fallen timber. They move deliberately, are highly resilient to husbandry errors, and generally display a docile temperament. They require wide enclosures with low vertical height and a thicker substrate layer to prevent injury from potential falls.
• Arboreal Species (e.g., genera Poecilotheria, Caribena, Psalmopeus): They occupy tree hollows, bark crevices, and canopies within tropical rainforests. Anatomically adapted for rapid locomotion and jumping, they frequently display highly vivid coloration. Vertically oriented enclosures equipped with cork bark pieces and live or artificial foliage are mandatory for their setup.
• Fossorial Species (e.g., genera Pterinochilus, Haplopelma, Monocentropus): They spend the vast majority of their life cycle within deep burrow systems excavated and reinforced by extensive webbing networks. These species are typically faster and more defensive. They require specialized deep-base enclosures capable of holding a substantial layer (15–20 cm) of moistened substrate.

• Vibrational Perception: Tarantulas possess reduced vision (eight simple eyes primarily sensitive to light intensity changes). Sensory perception is achieved via trichobothria—highly specialized sensory hairs located on the appendages that detect minute air currents and substrate vibrations.
• Defensive Mechanisms: New World species (indigenous to the Americas) feature urticating hairs on the abdomen, which they kick off using their hind legs when threatened. These hairs cause mechanical irritation to the predator's skin and mucous membranes. Old World species (from Asia and Africa) lack these hairs, relying instead on defensive postures or a more toxically significant bite.
• Molting (Ecdysis): Arthropod growth requires periodic shedding of the rigid exoskeleton. Prior to molting, the individual ceases feeding, and the abdomen darkens. The process typically occurs while the spider is inverted on its back and constitutes a critical phase where the animal must remain entirely undisturbed.

• Enclosure Setup and Substrate: High-quality coco coir, coconut fiber, or peat-sand blends serve as ideal substrates. Relative humidity and temperature must be adjusted according to the specific species' origin (ranging from 60% for semi-arid species to 85% for rainforest endemics). A shallow water dish with clean water must always be present.
• Dietary Regime: Tarantulas are strict carnivores, preying on live insects of appropriate proportions (crickets, roaches, locusts). Feeding frequency depends on life stage: slings and juveniles require feeding 1–2 times weekly, whereas adult specimens require feeding only once every 14 to 21 days. Tarantulas can tolerate prolonged fasting periods without adverse effects, particularly during pre-molt phases.