Overview
Acanthoscurria geniculata, commonly known as the Brazilian White Knee tarantula, is a species belonging to the family Theraphosidae. First described by C. L. Koch in 1841, this species is native to Brazil, particularly in the Tucuruí area of Pará. It is known for its burrowing behavior and can grow up to approximately 9 cm (3.5 inches) in size. The Brazilian White Knee tarantula thrives in a tropical climate with high humidity and specific temperature ranges, making it a fascinating species for both researchers and hobbyists.
Natural History
Acanthoscurria geniculata is primarily ground-dwelling and exhibits strong burrowing tendencies. The species is adapted to a humid tropical environment, with daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F) and nighttime temperatures between 20°C and 22°C (68°F to 72°F). The humidity levels are typically maintained between 70% and 80%.
In captivity, this tarantula often rearranges its habitat, demonstrating its natural instinct to dig. When planting in its enclosure, it is advisable to bury the pots to prevent the plants from dying due to the tarantula’s digging activities.
Taxonomy & Systematics
The taxonomic history of Acanthoscurria geniculata has seen several changes. Initially described under the genus Mygale, it was later moved to the genus Scurria in 1850, and finally transferred to Acanthoscurria by Ausserer in 1871. The species is part of the subfamily Theraphosinae, which includes many well-known tarantula species.
There are several references documenting the taxonomic changes and descriptions of this species, including:
- Koch, C. L. (1841). Die Arachniden.
- Ausserer, A. (1871). Beiträge zur Kenntniss der Arachniden-Familie der Territelariae.
- Bertani, R. (2001). Revision, cladistic analysis, and zoogeography of Vitalius, Nhandu, and Proshapalopus.
Husbandry
For successful husbandry of Acanthoscurria geniculata, the following conditions should be met:
- Terrarium Size: A minimum size of 60 x 40 x 40 cm (23.6 x 15.7 x 15.7 inches) is recommended.
- Substrate: A burrowable substrate, such as a mix of forest and potting soil, is ideal.
- Temperature: Maintain daytime temperatures between 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F) and nighttime temperatures between 20°C to 22°C (68°F to 72°F).
- Humidity: Keep humidity levels between 70% and 80%.
- Plants: Include moisture-loving plants like Epipremnum aureum or Philodendron scandens to enhance the habitat.
The mating process of Acanthoscurria geniculata is relatively calm, involving a series of drumming signals between the male and female. After successful mating, the female may produce a large egg sac containing approximately 1,000 to 1,300 spiderlings after about 16 weeks.
References
For more detailed information about Acanthoscurria geniculata, you can refer to the following sources:
- Koch, C. L. (1841). Die Arachniden.
- Ausserer, A. (1871). Beiträge zur Kenntniss der Arachniden-Familie der Territelariae.
- Bertani, R. (2001). Revision, cladistic analysis, and zoogeography of Vitalius, Nhandu, and Proshapalopus.
- Rudloff, J.-P. (2023). Acanthoscurria geniculata (C.L. Koch, 1841) eine Art mit Tücken.
For additional resources, visit the World Spider Catalog.
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