Aphonopelma mooreae is currently the most expensive tarantula species in the hobby—both as babies and adults—and for good reason. There have only been a handful of legal imports into the country, and very few specimens exist stateside. This makes availability extremely limited and demand incredibly high. I personally own two of the largest females from the very first legal import, and I’m actively searching for a large or mature male if anyone has one available. Despite its rarity and value, this species is surprisingly beginner friendly: slow growing, exceptionally hardy, and absolutely stunning. The colors are unreal in person—deep, rich, almost otherworldly—and unlike many New World species, they do not kick urticating hairs. This is a true grail tarantula.