Overview
The Avicularia avicularia, commonly known as the pinktoe tarantula, is a captivating species native to the lush regions of South America, including Bolivia, Brazil, and Venezuela. Known for its striking appearance and unique behaviors, this tarantula is a favorite among arachnid enthusiasts. Observing these spiders in their natural habitat offers a fascinating glimpse into their vibrant lives. If you’re considering keeping one as a pet, it’s essential to create a natural setup that mimics their wild environment.
Natural History
The Avicularia avicularia is widespread in nature, inhabiting dense rainforests and lighter areas near settlements across northern South America, from Brazil to Trinidad. This species is known for its peaceful demeanor and agility, especially in its younger stages, where it can perform small to large jumps. As they age, these jumping tendencies decrease. Female pinktoe tarantulas can live up to 15 years, while males typically live between 3 to 5 years.
Taxonomy & Systematics
The Avicularia avicularia was the first described species of its genus, making it the namesake. However, distinguishing it from other Avicularia species can be challenging due to their similar appearances, a situation known as the “Avicularia problem.” To prevent unwanted hybridization, it’s crucial to ensure that breeding pairs come from the same region or cocoon.
Husbandry
Keeping Avicularia avicularia in captivity requires understanding their natural habitat. These tarantulas thrive in environments that mimic the mid to upper canopy of rainforests, where humidity is moderated by airflow. Contrary to outdated beliefs, they should be kept on dry substrate with a water dish to maintain adequate moisture levels. Proper cross ventilation is essential to prevent stagnant air and excessive humidity, which can be fatal.
Breeding Avicularia avicularia is relatively straightforward, as males and females typically interact non-aggressively. The egg sac usually contains 40 to 60 eggs. However, raising the young can be challenging due to their sensitivity to moisture and feeding difficulties. Offering freshly killed prey directly with tweezers can encourage feeding and promote growth. Once the nymphs reach their third or fourth molt, they generally become more resilient.
References
- World Spider Catalog. “Taxon details: Avicularia avicularia (Linnaeus, 1758)”.
- Stradling, David J. “The growth and maturation of the ‘tarantula’, Avicularia avicularia L.” Zoological Journal of the Linnean Society.
- Costa, Fernando G.; Pérez-Miles, Fernando. “Reproductive Biology of Uruguayan Theraphosids (Araneae, Mygalomorphae)”. The Journal of Arachnology.
- Cloudsley-Thompson, J. L., & Constantinou, C. “Diurnal rhythm of activity in the arboreal tarantula Avicularia avicularia (L.)”. Journal of Interdisciplinary Cycle Research.
- Baliram, Kimberly. “Avicularia avicularia (Pink-toed Tarantula)”. The Online Guide to the Animals of Trinidad and Tobago.
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