Aphonopelma bicoloratum: The Beauty of the Desert
The Aphonopelma bicoloratum, commonly known as the Mexican Bloodleg Tarantula, is a true gem in the world of tarantula keeping. This stunning species is known for its striking coloration, with vibrant red legs that contrast beautifully with its dark, velvety body. It's a terrestrial tarantula that is both captivating and relatively easy to care for, making it a great addition to any collection.
Care Details:
- Temperature: Ideal range is 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C). Tarantulas in warmer environments eat more, grow faster, and molt quicker. This care flexibility makes tarantulas easy to maintain.
- Humidity: 65-70%. Water dishes are not necessary, but if used, they pose no harm. I personally do not use them.
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Housing:
- Babies: A 1 oz to 4 oz deli container with needle-made ventilation. Free containers available at checkout. If you would like a free container, please specify during checkout; otherwise, it will not be included with your order.
- Juveniles: For larger tarantulas, an enclosure 2 to 3 times their size, with some flexibility.
- Adults: An enclosure 2 to 3 times their size, with some flexibility.
Diet:
I personally give them a variety of crickets and cockroaches, including Dubia, Red-runner, Lobster, and Madagascar hissing roaches. For the baby tarantulas, baby crickets and baby roaches are ideal. If you have access to only one type of prey, that is also perfectly fine.
In-depth Facts:
- Latin name: Aphonopelma bicoloratum
- Common name: Mexican Bloodleg Tarantula
- Locale: Mexico, primarily in the states of Morelos and Guerrero
- Category: Terrestrial; does not web excessively
- Size: Females can grow up to 6 inches, while males are slightly smaller, reaching around 4 inches.
- Urticating hairs: they do possess urticating hairs, but hardy if ever use them.
- Growth rate: Slow grower
- Life span: Females can live up to 25-30 years, males around 5-7 years.
- Recommended levels: Suitable for all keepers. Super tolerant species.
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Safety Disclaimer:
Experiencing a tarantula bite is an extremely rare occurrence, and it's important to note that there have been no recorded fatalities due to a tarantula bite. The venom potency varies across species, with Old World tarantulas generally having stronger venom than their New World counterparts. Within the Old World category, the Poecilotheria genus is known for having particularly potent venom.
It's crucial to approach tarantulas with respect and understanding. If you happen to get bitten, which is unlikely, the key is to stay calm. In most cases, the discomfort is superficial and subsides within a few minutes to a few hours. However, bites from species with more potent venom may result in symptoms lasting up to a week. Remember, larger tarantulas tend to have more venom than smaller ones.
Please be aware that I cannot assume responsibility for bites. Tarantula handling should be done at your own risk. In my 11 years of experience with these creatures, I have only been bitten once, by a species with highly potent venom. While the experience was painful, the symptoms had completely disappeared after a week.
Handle tarantulas responsibly, and always prioritize your safety and the well-being of the tarantula.