Mexican black tarantula

Tliltocatl schroederi (formerly Brachypelma schroederi) is a tarantula endemic to Mexico, with populations concentrated primarily within the state of Oaxaca. This species inhabits semi-arid environments, dry deciduous forests, and thorny scrublands. It lives in burrows excavated in the ground under rocks, fallen logs, or at the base of vegetation, protecting it from high daytime temperatures.

Belonging to the family Theraphosidae and the genus Tliltocatl (recently separated from Brachypelma), Tliltocatl schroederi is closely related to species like *T. vagans*. Genetics and taxonomy define it as a distinct species characterized by the lack of red hairs on the abdomen, a uniform black coloration, and a notably slow growth rate.

It is a terrestrial, nocturnal, and sit-and-wait predator. It spends the day inside its burrow, the entrance of which is often webbed closed, and emerges at night to hunt. It is known for its exceptionally calm and docile temperament, rarely displaying defensive postures or kicking urticating hairs unless severely provoked.

It exhibits a robust body shape typical of Central American terrestrial tarantulas. Adults reach a leg span of approximately 12 to 14 centimeters. The coloration is a solid, velvety coal-black over the entire body, carapace, and legs, lacking the red or orange leg bands found in other genus members. Juveniles are dark gray before darkening.

Requires a terrestrial terrarium measuring at least 30x30x30 cm for an adult specimen. The substrate should consist of a mix of chemical-free peat moss, coco fiber, and a small percentage of sand, kept at least 8 to 10 cm deep to allow burrowing. A curved piece of cork bark must be provided as a starter hide.

Does not require special lighting; ambient room light is sufficient. Avoid placing the enclosure in direct sunlight. The ideal daytime temperature is between 24°C and 27°C (75°F to 80°F), with a nighttime drop to 20°C-22°C (68°F-72°F). Heat can be provided using a thermostatically controlled heating mat placed on one side of the tank.

Humidity should be kept moderate to low, around 50% to 60%. The substrate must be kept mostly dry, with only a small corner near the water dish lightly misted once a week. A shallow, clean water dish must always be present in the terrarium to allow the tarantula to drink safely.

Feeds on live insects of appropriate size. Crickets, roaches (such as Blaptica dubia or red runners), and locusts are ideal prey. Adults should be fed once every 1 to 2 weeks, while spiderlings require more frequent feeding. Vitamin or calcium supplements are not required. Remove uneaten insects within 24 hours.

Like almost all tarantulas, Tliltocatl schroederi is strictly solitary. Specimens must be housed individually in separate terrariums. Cohabitation will lead to cannibalism, regardless of sex or size. Breeding attempts must be closely supervised, and the male must be removed immediately after mating is completed.

The primary hazard is physical trauma from falls, which can rupture the abdomen and is usually fatal; therefore, the height of the terrarium above the substrate must not exceed 1.5 times the leg span. During a molt, the tarantula lies on its back and must not be disturbed. Never leave live feeder insects in the tank during molting.