Brazilian giant whiteknee tarantula

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to the tropical rainforests and humid forest floors of northern Brazil. It lives in deep burrows, under fallen logs, or at the base of trees, where humidity remains high and stable.\n

Taxonomy and Genetics: Belongs to the family Theraphosidae, subfamily Theraphosinae, genus Acanthoscurria. It is a large-bodied species widely appreciated in the hobby for its genetic hardiness.\n

Behavior and Habits: Primarily terrestrial and opportunistic. It is active and rarely stays hidden, making it a great display tarantula. While not overly aggressive, it is quick to kick urticating hairs when disturbed.\n

Morphology: Reaches an impressive leg span of 18-20 cm (7-8 inches). Features a deep black or dark brown base color with striking, clean white bands on its leg joints and reddish hairs on the abdomen.

Terrarium Setup: Requires a terrestrial terrarium measuring at least 16x12x12 inches (40x30x30 cm). Provide a deep layer (3-4 inches / 8-10 cm) of damp coconut fiber or peat moss for burrowing. Include a hide such as a cork bark half-log.\n

Lighting and Heating: Maintain temperatures of 24-27°C (75-80°F) during the day, with a night drop to 20-22°C (68-72°F). No special lighting or UVB is required; keep the enclosure shaded from bright light.\n

Humidity and Hydration: Requires moderate to high humidity (70-80%). Keep the substrate damp but not soggy. A shallow water dish must always be present and filled with fresh water.\n

Feeding and Supplementation: Exceptionally voracious feeder. Offer appropriately sized crickets, roaches (Dubia or red runners), and locusts. Spiderlings grow very fast and require frequent feeding. Supplementation is unnecessary.\n

Compatibility: Strictly solitary. Must be housed individually. Any cohabitation will end in cannibalism, except for supervised mating introductions.\n

Health and Common Diseases: The greatest risk to this heavy-bodied terrestrial spider is a fall; a drop from a short height can rupture its abdomen. Avoid tall enclosures. Urticating hairs can cause severe irritation to skin and eyes.