Melopoeus lividus

Melopoeus lividus – a cobalt-blue tarantula with a deep burrow

When light falls on the legs of Melopoeus lividus, they shimmer cobalt blue. Depending on the viewing angle, the color appears either a vivid blue or significantly darker. Often, you’ll first see only the front legs at the entrance to the burrow: This tarantula spends a lot of time in its self-dug shelter.

This species is found in Myanmar and Thailand. There, its burrows have been found in loamy slopes and among roots, among other places. The spider lines its burrow with silk. At the entrance, the web may open out in a funnel shape.

In older care guides, you’ll find this same species listed under the names Haplopelma lividum and Cyriopagopus lividus.

Setting Up a Terrarium for Melopoeus lividus

The usable depth of the substrate is crucial. Therefore, choose a terrarium with a secure-closing lid that allows you to fill it with a deep layer of soil. If you’re using a terrarium with a front door, make sure the threshold is high enough to accommodate it.

• Fill in the soil so the spider can dig: Gently press down on the soil so the walls of the burrow don’t collapse right away as the spider digs.
• Prepare an entrance: Place a flat piece of cork on top and form a small hollow underneath it. The spider can expand the tunnel from there on its own.
• Keep the soil moderately moist: If necessary, moisten part of the soil without soaking it. Keep the ventilation openings clear so that moisture doesn’t build up throughout the entire tank.
• Provide fresh water: Place a shallow dish so that you can refill it without having to reach into the burrow.

Feeding and Care

Offer live food insects of an appropriate size near the entrance to the tube. Do not push them into the tunnel. Remove any uneaten food, especially if the spider has retreated to molt.

Keep Melopoeus lividus individually and do not open its burrow when handling it. The spider can move quickly and may bite if cornered. Therefore, do not pick it up with your hands. It is suitable for keepers who already have experience with fast, burrowing tarantulas.

The Right Accessories for Your Tarantula

Tarantula & Scorpion Terrarium Complete Set – includes a 30 × 30 × 30 cm terrarium to serve as the foundation for your setup.

Tarantula substrate —provides a base in which the tarantula can dig its burrow. Fill it in layer by layer and press it down lightly.

Cork bark —provides a sheltered entrance where the spider can weave its web.

Insektenliebe Round Bowl – serves as a shallow drinking bowl and can be easily removed for cleaning.

Exo Terra Digital Thermometer and Hygrometer —helps you monitor the climate inside the enclosure. You can also check the moisture level in the substrate directly.

Suitable live food —we select the food based on your spider’s species and size.

Conclusion: The blue legs are visible at the entrance to the burrow

With Melopoeus lividus, waiting is part of the observation process. When she’s sitting at the entrance to her burrow, the blue sheen on her legs really stands out. With deep, stable substrate and an easily accessible water dish, you can maintain her enclosure without disturbing her hiding spot.