- Brazilian red and white tarantula
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Brazilian red and white tarantula Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda Class: Arachnida Order: Araneae Family: Theraphosidae Genus: Nhandu Species: N. chromatus Binomial name Nhandu chromatus
Schmidt, 2004Synonyms Vitalius cristatus
The Brazilian red and white tarantula (Nhandu chromatus) is a tarantula species that is native to Brazil.
Contents
Description
The Brazilian red and white tarantula is a larger tarantula with a diagonal leg span of approximately 15–17 centimetres (5.9–6.7 in). The Brazilian red and white tarantula is noted for its white striped legs, beige to grey prosoma, and the reddish hairs on the opisthosoma. Males and females look the same until the ultimate (final) molt of the males. At this point the male will exhibit sexual dimorphism in the form of a duller coloration and legginess. Additionally males will gain embolus on the pedipalps and tibial apophysis (mating hooks). The Brazilian red and white tarantula is a terrestrial species that will often make a burrow or make use of an abandoned burrow. The Brazilian red and white tarantula is reputed to be quite defensive with its urticating hairs.
Habitat
The Brazilian red and white tarantula is found in the tropical forests and savannahs of Brazil and Paraguay.
Pets
The Brazilian red and white tarantula is now fairly common in the pet trade, and it is popular among tarantula keepers for its beautiful coloration. The Brazilian red and white tarantulas large size, skittish demeanor, and urticating hairs means that it should not be handled except by an experienced person. Typical care requirements include a 5–10 US gallons (19–38 l; 4.2–8.3 imp gal) tank with 15–20 centimetres (5.9–7.9 in) of substrate such as peat moss or coco-husk. A tight fitting lid is a must. Care should be taken with any terrestrial species as a fall from even a short distance can cause injury, or even be fatal. Being from a tropical region they require relatively high humidity and should be provided with an open water dish. Tarantulas are generally offered 1-2 prey items (such as crickets) once weekly.
References
- Schultz, Stanley A. The Tarantula Keeper's Guide: Comprehensive Information on Care, Housing, and Feeding. Barrons, 2009. ISBN 0764138855
Categories:- Theraphosidae
- Spiders of South America
- Animals described in 2004
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