Description
Tliltocatl epicureanus, initially identified as Eurypelma epicureana by Ralph Chamberlin in 1925, underwent a taxonomic change to the genus Brachypelma by Andrew Smith in 1993. Smith retained the original specific name ending but corrected it to “epicureanum” in 1995. The species, first described by Chamberlin based on specimens collected from Chichen Itza in Yucatán, Mexico, includes documentation of both male and female specimens.
In November 2019, a proposal was made to move Brachypelma epicureanum to the genus Tliltocatl, a change that was accepted by the World Spider Catalog.
Tliltocatl epicureanus is found in central Yucatán, preferring moist forest and rainforest environments. It shares a close relationship with T. vagans but has a more restricted distribution in south-eastern Mexico. All species within the Brachypelma genus, which at the time included Tliltocatl, were added to CITES Appendix II in 1994, resulting in trade restrictions. Despite these measures, the illegal trafficking of wild-caught tarantulas from Mexico continues.
Commonly known as the Yucatan Rustrump, Tliltocatl epicureanus is native to Central America and Mexico, thriving in savanna and scrubland habitats. The recommended conditions for this species in captivity include a temperature range of 70°-85°F (21.1°-29.4°C) and humidity between 65%-80%. The enclosure should provide at least three inches (7.62cm) of substrate for spiderlings, increasing to four inches (10.16cm) for sub-adults and adults.
The substrate mixture typically includes coconut fiber and soil for firmness. A bark hide serves as a suitable retreat for this opportunistic burrower. Tliltocatl epicureanus, when reaching three inches (7.62cm), tends to spend more time in the open, making it an attractive display tarantula.
The species has a medium growth rate, with specimens growing from 1/4″ (0.635cm) spiderlings to three inches (7.62cm) within three years under consistent feeding and temperatures in the low to mid-80s. Adult sizes reach a solid six inches (10.16cm) after a decade.
Known for its docile nature, Tliltocatl epicureanus rarely exhibits defensive behavior, refraining from hair-kicking or threat poses. Notably, it is considered one of the rarest Tliltocatl species in the hobby.
