Ewok pruriens

Ewok pruriens – Metallic shine and calm nature

Ewok pruriensstill known to many keepers under the former name Thrixopelma pruriens comes from Peru and was only recently transferred to the new genus Ewok transferred. The species thus belongs to a group of Peruvian tarantulas whose systematics have been revised.

The species is particularly well known for its fine greenish to turquoise shimmer, which is visible to varying degrees depending on the incidence of light. This is precisely why it is often referred to in English-speaking countries as the Peruvian Green Velvet Tarantula in English-speaking countries.

While many South American tarantulas are rather inconspicuously colored, the Ewok pruriens particularly elegant due to their metallic sheen. At the same time, the long hair gives the animals a velvety appearance, making them very attractive even when at rest.

Calm behavior with occasional surprises

The species is generally considered to be rather calm and can often be observed openly in the terrarium. At the same time, however, one should bear in mind that Ewok pruriens has stinging hairs and may well use them if disturbed.

During the day, the animals often sit in front of their hiding place or directly on the substrate while attentively observing their surroundings. However, as soon as a food animal passes by, they react quickly and display their excellent hunting instincts.

It is precisely this mixture of calm and sudden activity that makes the species particularly interesting for many keepers.

Terrarium and furnishings

Since Ewok pruriens lives predominantly on the ground, the surface area should be more important than the height of the terrarium. At the same time, the animals are happy to have a safe hiding place that they can use as required.

Particularly suitable:

• Cork tubes
• Cork pieces
• Spiderwood
• Half-buried hiding places
• Foliage layers

A mixture of forest humus and diggable substrate has proved to be a good substrate, as the animals occasionally carry out minor remodeling work.

This creates a near-natural environment, while at the same time providing the spider with various retreat options.

Climate and care

Ewok pruriens can be easily maintained under stable conditions, which is why this species can also be of interest to keepers with less experience.

They have proven themselves:

• Temperature: 22-26 °C
• Humidity: 60-75 %

The substrate should be kept slightly moist, while individual areas should be allowed to dry out again. At the same time, good ventilation is important to prevent a permanently damp climate from developing.

With a GLORIA fine sprayer can be used to increase the humidity without soaking the entire terrarium.

Feeding

The species is uncomplicated when it comes to food and reliably accepts various food animals.

Particularly suitable are:

• Cricket
• Argentine cockroaches
• Cockroaches
• Gold flies
• Blowflies

Juveniles can also be provided with smaller prey without any problems, while adult females can also safely overpower larger prey.

Growth and life expectancy

How many South American tarantulas grow Ewok pruriens grows comparatively slowly, but develops its particularly beautiful coloration over the years.

The green shimmer is often particularly intense after moulting, while older females can grow into impressive animals.

With good care, females reach a high life expectancy and often accompany their owners for many years.

Important points on posture

• Ground-dwelling tarantula
• Metallic green shimmer
• Calm behavior
• Good ventilation is important
• Hiding places are often used
• Attractive style for beginners and advanced users

Suitable accessories for your setup

For a near-natural terrarium, we recommend:

• Tarantula substrate –natural substrate
• Cork tubes – safe retreats
• Spiderwood – natural structure
• Insektenliebe Terraleaf-Brick – provides a natural appearance
• GLORIA fine sprayer – Controlled moisture supply
• Argentine cockroaches – ideal food animal
• crickets – Varied food

This creates a stable and natural terrarium in which the special coloration of Ewok pruriens is shown to its best advantage.

Conclusion

Ewok pruriens combines an extraordinary appearance with a comparatively uncomplicated attitude. The greenish velvet shimmer, the calm behavior and the interesting history as a former Thrixopelma pruriens make this species a special tarantula for any collection.

If you are looking for an attractive South American tarantula that impresses not with its size but with its elegance and color, you will love Ewok pruriens enjoy for a long time. 🕷️🌿