Hysterocrates crassipes

Hysterocrates crassipes: The fascinating giant excavator in the terrarium

Hysterocrates crassipes is one of the most impressive ground-dwelling tarantulas in West Africa. It appears massive, powerful and at the same time surprisingly calm. Its strong legs, which it uses excellently for digging, are particularly striking. It also possesses the Hysterocrates-species, which gives it a distinctive appearance. Many keepers love this species because it offers a mixture of size, composure and natural behavior that can be observed every day.

This tarantula builds deep burrows in the wild and spends a large part of the day there. This is exactly the same behavior in the terrarium. It digs passionately and forms complex tunnels that are often surprisingly stable. This makes their terrarium look like a small model of nature that they are constantly developing. When it comes out of its tube in the evening, however, it likes to show itself and moves quietly through its territory. Its body is dark brown to black, with the leg segments often shimmering slightly bronze.

A terrarium from 30 × 30 × 30 cm is suitable for keeping them. As it digs a lot, a deep substrate is crucial. A height of 15-20 cm of forest humus, preferably mixed with some desert sand, allows for stable tubes. A cork tube or a piece of root wood provides a starting point for its burrow structure. As soon as it has settled in, it will build the rest of the living area itself. The climate may be warm and slightly damp. During the day 25-27 °C is sufficient, at night 20-22 °C. Humidity should be between 70 and 80 %. Occasional spraying in a corner will keep the terrarium constant without it becoming too wet. A water dish should always be offered.

The food shows Hysterocrates crassipes very uncomplicated. It eats well and accepts almost any suitable prey. Crickets, cockroaches or crickets are completely sufficient. Due to its calm nature, it does not appear aggressive, but it defends its tube resolutely if disturbed. Nevertheless, it remains much more relaxed than many African species.

It is well suited for beginners as long as you respect their burrowing lifestyle and set up a stable terrarium. If you are looking for a tarantula that shows natural building activities and is easy to observe at the same time, you will find in Hysterocrates crassipes a wonderful way full of strength and calm.