Heteropoda davidbowie

Heteropoda davidbowie – Named for species conservation

Heteropoda davidbowiealso known as David Bowie spider belongs to the giant crab spiders (Sparassidae) and immediately stands out because of its name. This name was chosen deliberately, to generate attention and at the same time draw attention to the extinction of specieswhich also reaches people who are otherwise not interested in spiders.

The species has a very striking appearance. Females reach about 21 to 25 mmwhile males remain somewhat smaller, making it easy to distinguish the sexes. The body appears gray to reddish-brown and has several spots, while at the same time the bright orange hair stands out particularly strongly. This creates a striking contrast that immediately catches the eye. The legs also show light and dark ring markings, giving the entire animal a very lively appearance.

Young animals initially tend to behave in a hidden manner, as they prefer to stay on the ground and actively seek shelter. They use foliage and small structures, to disguise themselves and stay safe at the same time. However, this behavior changes significantly with increasing age, because from around FH4, the animals show themselves openly much more often. They like to sit on pieces of bark and actively wait there for prey.

The animals hunt very confidently and attack even larger food animals without hesitation, which shows them to be efficient hunters. At the same time, they lose their shyness over time, which is why you should be careful when working in the terrarium. always be careful and use tweezers.

A terrarium from about 20 × 20 × 30 cmand it is particularly important to provide a structurally rich environment. Cork bark, foliage and various hiding places not only ensure safety, but also provide natural hunting groundswhich makes the animals feel much more comfortable.

The recommended substrate is a mix of forest humus and sphagnum moss in a ratio of 3:1as this retains moisture well and remains loose at the same time. This creates a stable microclimate that has a positive effect on their behavior.

Spray the terrarium lightly lightly every two daysso that the animals can absorb sufficient moisture, while at the same time you should avoid waterloggingto prevent problems.

Feeding takes place once a weekwhere suitable food insects are offered. Make sure to remove uneaten animals promptly, to avoid stress and disruption.

Breeding is also exciting, as one female produces a cocoon with around 100 to 150 youngwhich can quickly produce many offspring. Keep them together until about FH3, before you separate themotherwise cannibalism may occur.

Heteropoda davidbowie not only impresses with its striking appearance, but also with its active behavior and special history. This makes it ideal for keepers who appreciate movement in the terrarium and at the same time want to keep an unusual species.

Finally, a quote from David Bowie that fits the spider’s name very well:

“I am not a prophet or a stone-age man, just a mortal with the potential of Superman. I live on.”