Avicularia purpurea – Ecuadorian Purple Pinktoe
This is one of the most elegant arboreal tarantulas out there. Avicularia purpurea is a true gem—covered in a soft metallic purple sheen that becomes even more stunning as it matures. It's calm, webby, and makes for a beautiful display species. If you're looking for something easygoing and eye-catching, this is a perfect fit.
Care Details
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Temperature: Keep between 75–85°F (24–29°C). Warmer temps help it grow faster and stay more active, but nothing extreme is needed.
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Humidity: Aim for around 75–80%. I lightly mist every few days, just enough to keep the enclosure from drying out.
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Housing (Arboreal):
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Babies: Use a small vial up to 5 inches tall and 2 inches wide with side ventilation. Ask during checkout if you'd like a free vial—I won't include it unless you ask.
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Juveniles (over 2 inches): A 7–8 inch tall enclosure with good airflow.
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Adults: 12–16 inch tall arboreal enclosures work well. Add some bark, anchor points for webbing, and vertical space—they’ll use it all.
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Diet
I rotate between crickets and all types of roaches—Dubia, Red-runner, Lobster, and even Madagascar hissers. Babies get pinhead crickets or baby roaches.
Can’t find small prey? Just crush the head and leave it overnight. Remove any leftovers to avoid mold.
You can offer a pinky mouse or small lizard occasionally as a treat—just don’t overdo it. Too much calcium can cause digestive issues.
In-Depth Facts
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Latin name: Avicularia purpurea
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Common name: Ecuadorian Purple Pinktoe
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Locale: Ecuador, particularly in humid, forested areas—primarily from the Amazon basin.
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Category: Arboreal. Loves to web, especially in corners and along vertical surfaces. Will climb and hang out mid-air when it feels safe.
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Size: Females can reach 5 to 5.5 inches. Males slightly smaller, around 4 to 4.5 inches.
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Urticating hairs: Yes—rarely used unless provoked. This species relies more on retreating than defense.
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Growth rate: Moderate. A bit faster with higher temps and consistent feeding.
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Lifespan: Females live up to 12 years, males 3 to 4 years.
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Recommended levels: Perfect for everyone—especially those who appreciate gentle, webby arboreals. Even beginners will do well with this one.
Stay Connected
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Instagram: I'm most active here—see all the latest updates.
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YouTube: I post care videos, rehousings, and tips.
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Facebook: Read what others are saying.
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TikTok: Fun content and tarantula clips.
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 Poecilotheriagenus 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.