Description
This African Tarantula is one of the most popular species in the hobby, and for good reason. Its color can vary depending on its original locality, ranging from a bright orange to a tan with a starburst pattern. This species is fascinating in both behavior and habits, and while not recommended for beginners, it’s definitely a species you’ll want to keep sooner or later. They don’t require high humidity and can be kept on slightly moistened substrate with a water dish. The best terrarium setup includes both arboreal and terrestrial hides, and if provided with enough substrate, they may even dig a burrow. They are heavy webbers and will cover their retreat and the entire enclosure in elaborate silken tunnels. It’s important to be careful when moving and maintaining the enclosure as they are very fast and may bite or escape. This species has the widest distribution of all African species, with four main color forms, each differing slightly in color, pattern, and size. The biggest form is the “TCF,” with males reaching up to 18cm LS. The “RCF” usually constructs its silk shelters above the substrate, while the others are more terrestrial and will utilize terrestrial hides or burrows. In the wild, they inhabit humid and semi-humid equatorial as well as arid bush land and semi-deserted areas, with an altitude range between sea level to 2100m. They live in burrows, holes, and utilize other natural refugees on the ground, on the base of bushes, between stones, and sometimes in the hollow of trees. This species is often bred in captivity, and spiderlings are available throughout the year. Females are not very productive and produce fixed egg sacs containing around 120-150 eggs. However, this species can produce 2 or 3 egg sacs from one mating, unlike many other tarantulas. Offspring are good eaters, tackling fast prey and growing quickly.
