Easy
Mexico
7 CM
25-30 °C
Short description Brachypelma boehmei:
Brachypelma boehmei, also known as the Mexican red-legged bird spider, is a fascinating species native to Mexico. This ground-dwelling spider species is popular for its black and orange coloration. The legs and carapace are bright orange, while the rest of the body is black in color. This striking coloration is a warning to their enemies to rather leave them alone.
The growth of Brachypelma boehmei can be classified as rather slow, taking 6-9 years to reach the adult stage. Females can live up to 30 years, making them long-lived companions. The process of molting is an important aspect in their growth and occurs about once a year. During this process, the spider sheds its old skin and forms a new, larger layer underneath. This process can take several hours and requires a lot of energy from the spider.
Raising the spiderlings turns out to be absolutely unproblematic, as they require the same housing conditions as the adults. The young spiders are initially very small and transparent, but with each molting process they gradually change to the typical black-orange coloration.
An adult female can reach up to 6-7 cm in body length and should be kept on a floor space of at least 30 x 30 cm, better yet 30 x 40 cm. Brachypelma boehmei is very adaptable and requires a terrarium that reflects its natural habitat. In the terrarium the animals are normally seen almost daily, but they also like to dig very much. Sufficient diggable substrate, such as a forest humus desert sand mixture that rises towards the back, should therefore be essential. Incorporated into the rising substrate should also be half a cork tube available as a shelter. A corner with moss and a water bowl are also important, as both increase the humidity in the terrarium and thus provide a good climate for the spider.
Contrary to the common opinion that Brachypelma species like it rather dry, there should nevertheless be at least one humid corner in the terrarium. In summer, the temperatures should be relatively constant at 25-30 °C and the humidity (50-65%) may also be increased somewhat. In winter, however, the temperatures in the natural habitat of Brachypelma boehmei can drop to 15°C and it is usually drier than in summer. The animals then usually retreat into their shelter.
All around the Brachypelma boehmei is a very popular tarantula not only because of its appearance, but also because of its calm behavior and its relatively easy keeping. With their ability to easily overpower feeders and their long lifespan, they are a great addition to any terrarium. Their ability to thrive in a variety of temperatures and humidity conditions also makes them suitable for beginners learning how to care for tarantulas. Brachypelma boehmei is undoubtedly a fascinating species that will delight any tarantula lover.