Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens

Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens – The color fireworks from Venezuela

Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens, better known as the Greenbottle Blue Tarantula, is one of the most colorful tarantulas in the terrarium hobby, because Hardly any other species combines so many bright colors in one animal. The bright blue legs, the orange abdomen and the metallic-green carapace appear almost unreal, whereby this spider immediately catches the eye. It retains this intense coloration for the rest of its life and therefore inspires both as a young animal as well as as an adult animal.

This species originates from the dry coastal regions of northern Venezuela and lives there in bushy, semi-desert areas. It lives close to the ground and uses self-dug or abandoned burrows, while it also builds large, dense webs. These serve as shelter and hunting grounds. and as a place of retreat. It also shows this behavior very clearly in the terrarium, because it spins decoration, substrate and Hiding places intensively. This makes it a particularly exciting spider to observe.

A terrarium from 30 × 30 × 30 cm is suitable for keeping them, whereby larger is possible at any time. The substrate should be burrowable, so that the spider can create its burrow. Sandy loam mixtures or coco humus have proven effective, the be kept mainly dry. A shelter, pieces of bark, roots and climbing elements provide structure and also provide many starting points for spinning. A small water bowl is also part of the basic equipment and should always be filled.

During the day, the animals feel comfortable at 24-28 °C, during the temperature may drop slightly at night. A humidity level of around 50-60% is sufficient, why occasional, sparing spraying is perfectly adequate. However, waterlogging should be avoided, as this species prefers dry conditions.

Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens is moderately agile and reacts quite quickly when disturbed, but usually remains shy. It tends to withdraw, instead of to attack. As a New World species, it has stinging hairs, which it can use when threatened, which is why calm handling is recommended. Due to its pronounced weaving behavior, it is often visible and often shows itself openly in the terrarium.

This species is uncomplicated to feed, because crickets, crickets, cockroaches and other common food insects are accepted without any problems. Young animals are given smaller prey accordingly, while adult animals can cope with larger food animals. Regular, but not excessive feeding is completely sufficient.

With good care, females can live for over 12 years, while males usually live much shorter. Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens combines spectacular colors, active spinning behavior and easy keeping, so that for beginners with basic knowledge as well as is an excellent choice for experienced keepers. For those who want a decorative and and highly visible tarantula, this species is exactly the right choice.