Sweet creatures & they deserve to not be given such a bad rap. I must warn sexing from photos can be difficult to impossible. It's closely related to the Mexican red-knee tarantula. Its legs are generally a solid orange-brown color and its body is black with orange patches, giving it a pumpkin-patch pattern. These tropical spiders are native to Martinique, but are commonly bred in captivity. Mexican Red Knee Tarantula Size. These hairs can embed in the skin and cause irritation; they also can be seriously damaging if they get in your eyes. You can monitor moisture by looking for condensation on the walls of the tank. You should use a mix of soil, vermiculite, and peat moss for the bedding or substrate, loosely packed and at least 4 inches thick. Originally I took photos of Brachypelma emilia for this ventral sexing article however, their black undersides did not make for good, clear photos. Choosing a large enough enclosure is essential for the well-being of your spider. Although thought of as a powerful predator, the Mexican redknee tarantula is just as likely to be preyed on by animals such as birds and lizards. The more times you alter a balanced substrate, the more often you will disturb the entire tank environment, which could cause your Mexican red-knee tarantula to become stressed. Lianne McLeod, DVM, is a small animal and exotic pet expert with over a decade of experience writing about veterinary care. states of Jalisco, Colima, and Michoacn, Panama and the south-western parts Would you like to hold a redknee tarantula? Lemon Blast, 0.1. The young tarantulas spend two weeks in the burrow, before becoming independent and leaving home. The substrate for your enclosure shouldnt be toxic or sharp. Mexican red-knee tarantulas are interesting, quiet, and low-maintenance pets. of the United States, Scrublands, How docile are these beautiful creatures? However, these foods can leave a mess in the tank, so you should clean away the remains immediately after feeding. Plenty of material will also allow your Mexican red-knee tarantula to burrow and make its own hiding spots. I had 2 Mexican brown and tans, (I needed a break from cats); Id read that they live like 30 years, but mine lived perhaps 3-5, and that was it, so, perhaps they were maleIm glad to see they probably didnt die by mishandling / bad animal husbandry.The 1st one was an impulse buy.Feeding-wiseMy tarantulas were a redefinition of the word, ferocious, almost like the T-Rex from Jurassic Park, L.O.L.!! This beginner spider is simple to care for and costs $60 to $100. Brachypelma hamorii is a species of tarantula found in Mexico. Mexican Redknee Tarantula This species is found in the Mexican state of Guerrero. You might notice less hair on your tarantula's abdomen or even a bald spot on your tarantula's abdomen. I don't have a B albo. This is one of the best ways to determine a t. Apr 29, 2015. Its always been a mystery to me as to why people constantly bring up the pet rock thing. The smithi costs more too. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Brachyphelma smithi. Although Mexican red-knees sometimes dig burrows, the substrate doesnt need to be more than three inches deep. Maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level is an important element of Mexican red-knee tarantula care. University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Many earlier sources referring to B. smithi either do not distinguish between the two species or relate to B. hamorii.B. While most of this spider is black or brown, the tips of their legs are a bright pink or orange color. Your spider will take a break from eating once a year to molt. Female Mexican red-knee spiders live longer than males. or Mexican red leg? WOW! Fearnottarantulas.com is a great place to order from. What makes Chilean Roses so entertaining is their behavior. Thanks Im advance! Your spider may not eat for several days or weeks. Tarantulas are unique spiders that can bring lots of fun to pet ownership. These spiders are fairly low-maintenance, requiring regular feedings and periodic tank cleanings. During this time, spiders often refuse to eat and might lie immobile on their back. mexican red knee tarantula male vs female. Crawling bugs can stress a Mexican red-knee tarantula if the spider isnt hungry. When a male matures (has his final or "ultimate" molt) he gains some distinguishing characteristics such as "tibial hooks" (present in most species) and bulbous pedipalps which are often referred to as "boxing gloves", "Boxing gloves" are circled left & tibial hooks are circled right. The females can live around 20 to 30 years while the males only live for about 10 years. Here is an Aphonopelma chalcodes (Arizona Blonde) 4 1/2" male first unedited: Second, we have added a yellow pencil line to show the more flat angle 5-7 degrees between the first pair of book lungs: Third, we have added another yellow pencil line to show the "triangle" or "arch" around the area of theepiandrous fusillae, only present in males. Adding a few fake plants also helps mimic its natural environment. remaining part of their body is brown, with the adult males having a They may not be as popular as the Mexican Redknee (#7), but they are docile pet tarantulas that rarely bite. Tarantulas are normally very easy to keep and have simple day-to-day care needs. While they have a stigma, they do make great pets. It also helps the tank maintain its humidity levels and keeps your Mexican red-knee tarantula as comfortable as possible in its environment. 3. What about this photo? The Mexican redknee tarantula has a hairy, black body. I have 2 B smithi's. Arachnoboards.com is the Internet's largest forum community for invertebrate hobbyists of all types! We have some beautiful Mexican Redknee tarantulas for sale at the internet's best prices. Leopard Seal Facts: Pictures, Information & Video, Wild Dog Species List: All Types Of Wild Dogs, With Pictures & Information, Weird Sea Creatures, Info, Pictures & Facts: Worlds Strangest Ocean Animals, Weird Insects List With Pictures & Facts, The Worlds Weirdest Insects, Weird Reptiles List Of The Weirdest Reptiles, Pictures & Interesting Facts, Weird Mammals List Of The Weirdest Mammals, Pictures & Interesting Facts, Weird Birds Pictures & Facts The Worlds Strangest Bird Species, Nature News The Latest Wildlife News From Around The World. However, theyre not the best choice for those who want a cuddly and social pet. (Brachypelma boehmei), Mexican Redleg Tarantula (Brachypelma emilia), Mexcian Redknee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi), Mexican Red Rump Tarantula . There are lots of differing opinions on what makes a good beginner tarantula, but I think it comes down more to what the owner is used to and what they want from a pet. You will get better with time and experience! Your spider could die if it overheats. Aside from using the spermathecae to determine gender this reproductive organ is often used to identify and distinguish certain species. However, it's important to note that its bite is venomous. This large arachnid is nocturnal, hunting at night and sleeping during the day. A Recommended enclosure: Terrestrial Juvenile Recommended Food: medium B. later.. $125.00 $225.00. I can positively assure one N, all: my tarantulas liked, cricket-souffl*, butthey absolutely, LOVED mice-roast*;The pet store DIDNT inform me that tarantulas molt so I was pretty surprised; I shouldve better researched the species. This gorgeous tarantula is collected by beg.. . The Mexican redknee tarantula is found on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Females live between 8 and 10 years and males 3 to 4 years. Ask the seller whether you can see the spider eat if possible. Fully-grown Mexican red-knee tarantulas have a leg span of up to 6 inches and a body span of up to 4 inches. Examine the molt to look for the presence of a spermathecae. as once a male has reached his mature (also known as "final" or "ultimate" molt) he can be easily identified and his gender 100% confirmed by the presence of his male reproductive organs. While no tarantula should be held very often, this species is known for being one of the calmest and docile. The Green Bottle Blue Tarantula is well-known for its green, blue and orange body and royal blue legs. The Mexican redknee tarantula is generally docile, easy to handle and harmless to humans. They are commonly found in the Brazilian Amazon as well as in French Guinea, humid grasslands, and rainforests. Like all arachnids, the Mexican redknee has eight legs. Are Mexican red-knee tarantulas hard to take care of? In order to properly determine the gender first you will need an intact molt. These spiders are slow-moving and docile, and dont mind being carefully handled. Females live up to 25 years and males live for five to ten years. Mexican red-knee tarantulas can be good pets for kids, as long as they remain out of reach of children who don't understand their handling restrictions. Their body can also be white or black, further adding to this spiders skeleton-like appearance. While supplemental heating is recommended for most North American terrarium environments, it's also important to give your spider an unheated area to cool off should the tank get too hot. They both seem to be great tarantulas, but after running their stats against each other, I'm really torn. Put your female in a bigger tank. They are generally better suited to pet owners who want a quiet spider and cost $20-$50. Last updated: Jan 23 2023. More Info Add to Cart. You'll want to try this with tarantulas minimum about 2" DLS, Ventral sexing is not considered an accurate way to determine gender however, most often the specimens intact molt is not immediately available and we must rely on what we have and accept the answer will only be a best guess. 3 1/2" DLS. Where is the Mexican redknee tarantula found in the wild? The Chiapas tarantula has jet-black legs and fiery-red setae (hairs) on their abdomen! Mexican red-knee tarantulas are actually two different spider species that are native to the Pacific coast of Mexico. Continue reading learn about the best 12 pet tarantulas for beginners. Like most other tarantulas, Mexican red-knees respond to danger by ejecting barbed hairs from their legs and abdomen. While male red-knees have an average lifespan of 10 years, females can live up to 25-30 years. That makes it awesome. While a female can be identified by the confirming the presence of a spermathecae, a male can be identified by confirming the absence of a . Mexican redknee tarantulas are also illegally captured and sold to the pet trade. They eat and grow like monsters specially in the first year.. They both seem to be great tarantulas, but after running their stats against each other, I'm really torn. large number of these spiders are known to have been caught and smuggled Brachypelma emilia is also known as the Mexican Red Leg. 2.3 royals, 1,2 Spider royal, 1 Albino royal, 1 Fire Royal 1.1 Lesser Platinum Royal, 1.1 Yellow Belly Royal, 1 Het Pied , 1 Pied, 1. . cheers :2thumb: i had read about the b.smithi flicking hairs, but on all the care sheets seem to make out its a good starter. Recommended Experience Level: Intermediate. Not all veterinarians treat tarantulas. And like most tarantulas, it will eject urticating hairs from its abdomen and legs if it thinks it's in danger. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. One of them I bought from a guy that said she was a bad hair kicker. I have another male Mexican Red Knee (both of these boys are sub adults), anyhow, Junior is sweet & of all my 8 red knees, he will actually want to climb out onto me just to chill -I dont initiate the handling of any of my spiders- since I have around 250 tarantulas, watering them can take hours, since each spider must ne kept in its own individual enclosure & one day I sat down to take a break during a watering session & caught something on my shoulder from the corner of my eye -Junior had been sitting there for-I dont know how long- when I looked where Juniors enclosure was, it was about an hour sonce I had been at his, so he had been on me for some time & I didnt know it. The hairs can make you itch for hours or even days. They are in the Near Threatened list reptiles, frogs, insects, birds and rodents. Size: They are large in size with the females having a length of 52mm to 54mm, while the male counterparts are shorter, being 46mm to 52 mm long. It will grow to a leg span of approximately 5 inches and while females can live as long as 30 years old, males only have a life expectancy of about 10 years. To successfully breed Mexican red-knee tarantulas, there are a few pointers you should remember: About 8 weeks after you see the female at the entrance to her burrow, the spiderlings will hatch. The Zebra Tarantula is highly adaptable, very hardy and easy to care for in captivity. There are many gender-defining characteristics potentially visible from the, Mature Male C. cyaneopubescens (Green Bottle Blue). Personally, it's hard for me to look at something 2D representing a 3D image. They can become stressed if you attempt to scoop them up, or even if you let them walk into your hand. 20-gallon tank, around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with 60 to 70 percent humidity. This spider is named after its red-orange legs. Molting isnt a health issue, but its something to look out for if youre a Mexican red-knee tarantula owner. They are simple to care for, docile and cost $30 to $50. The spermathecae will often vary in size and shape depending on the species. While the female specie manages to live for 10 to 15 years, the male specie only thrives for 4 to 6 years. I disagree with the idea that the albo is dull brown. Because of their small size, they require a special diet of fruit flies or similar insects instead of the larger crickets and mealworms. are located at the entrance of their habitat for the purpose of catching preys Everything Reptiles articles, care guides, videos and podcasts are intended to be used for a general nature only. Some tarantulas will lose hair on their abdomens leading up to a molt. These tarantulas are tree-dwellers, so they live best with branches or cork to climb. Here is the same B. cabocla molt, a little closer, with the spermathecae outlined in yellow: Now compare these females molts to that of a male Avicularia (Pinktoe) below. Tarantulas are easier to care for than most pets. Costa Rican Zebras are one of the more calm and docile species. Mexico. Plan to spend between $5 and $10 on average. Most tarantulas have the same basic care needs and are usually the same price. Keep in mind that typically the younger the specimen the specimen is, the more subtle the differences. Sensitive hairs on the Mexican redknees legs can pick up the tiniest vibrations. Like most tarantulas, the Mexican red-knee is hardy and not prone to illness. You can measure the tank humidity with a hygrometer. Dont use any bleaches or detergents to clean your spiders housing. Tarantulas are a type of spider that have over 850 different species. The Mexican red-knee tarantula is one of the most docile and calm pet tarantulas, making . Owners love them for the unique appearance. An example would be someone who is used to fast and dangerous snakes might find a slow moving Grammostola rosea boring and would have the ability to keep the faster more aggressive spiders. They also enjoy sitting in your hand or on your arm. It mainly lives in dry areas such as deserts and mountainsides, and is also found in forests. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Dorsal form the latin dorsum meaning back and/or. that don't require looking at their underside. The Mexican Redrump Tarantula is one of several Mexican red species. With hundreds of educational care guides covering the health, habitat, husbandry and behaviour of lizards, snakes, turtles, and more;we are here to provide anyone keeping or studying reptiles and amphibians with expert guidance. Even bringing these spiders together for breeding is risky, so a permanent co-housing situation wont work. This week I share my experiences keeping the Mexican Red Knee Tarantula known scientifically as the Brachypelma hamorri. females having a length of 52mm to 54mm, while the male counterparts are Clean the tank up to four times a year at most. A sample of eight males were slightly smaller, with a total body length in the range 44-49 mm (1.7-1.9 in). The Goliath bird-eating tarantula has a leg span measuring 11 inches in diameter. Hey everyone. Mexican Red Knee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi) . However, the redknees eyesight is poor, and it relies more on its excellent sense of touch when hunting. The venom typically causes a local reaction that's similar to a bee sting. The same molt (Female G. porteri) approx. He has been a reptile hobbyist since childhood and after years in herpetoculture he has cared for many Geckos and Frogs. hi all, as in title, whats the difference between the two and what would make a better beginner T seen a flame knee in the local shop and really liked it just thought i would get some thoughts first, thanks. He should be placed into the female's tank. The truth is that they can make very unique and exciting pets. To make sure youre getting the best price in your area, check local forums and shop around before purchasing. There are thousands of different types of spiders in the world, and some dont even spin webs! Follow the link below to find out more and to sign up! Skeleton species are a South American spider. The females are generally slightly larger than the males. Out of the three you are interested in I would recommend the Mexican Red Leg (Brachypelma emilia) as they are generally slow moving, not very flicky and have a nice temperament. With the molt pliable, carefully unwrap the abdomen section. The largest diameter of this spider is 10 inches. Tarantulas are scary for some people, but the Pink Toe is actually a shy and docile species itself. Not all tarantulas will much on their molt however, if the molt is recovered quickly after the tarantula has shed not only will the molt be soft and pliable (which makes the next step much, much easier) but you wont give him/her the chance to eat it. You can combine these materials for a substrate that will hold onto water without getting soggy. Althoughthe looking methods are not considered to be completely accurate the topic still be covered in depth as to help others to make educated guesses as to the gender of their specimen, at least until an intact molt/exuviae can be recovered. While the male Mexican Flame Knee spider has a lifespan of 4 to 5 years, females can live up to 15 years in captivity. 8 Best Terrestrial Invertebrates to Keep as Pets. You do not want a tarantula to bite you, it would hurt you and your pet if you drop it. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, which supports our community. It will only bite if threatened, but its venom is not fatal. Tarantulas can live up to 25 years and can be domesticated into affectionate but not cuddly pets, so you need to be prepared to make a commitment if you take one on. Male Avicularia (Pink Toe) approx. Red knee that's B. smithi, correct? Mexican Redrumps are the first species on this list to be considered docile. Getting an intact, read-able molt is a feat in itself You must be quick to grab the molt soon after the tarantula has shed it's skin or else the tarantula is likely to much on it. They are unpredictable, so do not expect a calm tarantula to act the same way every time. The male and female are similar in appearance, but the male usually has a smaller body and longer legs. (Its completely free, you can unsubscribe at any time, and well never share your details.). And as they're quite docile, they typically are easy to handle. Mexican red-knees molt once a year. This page contains Mexican redknee tarantulafacts for kids (and adults). Some tarantulas can make good pets, but it depends on the species. Add a shallow water dish that your spider can easily get in and out of to the enclosure. Mexican Redknee Tarantula Tarantulas may appear scary at first glance, but never fear! , check local forums and shop around before purchasing tank maintain its humidity levels and your! A consistent temperature and humidity level is an important element of Mexican red-knee is hardy and easy handle!, and it relies more on its excellent sense of touch when hunting tree-dwellers, so they best... Damaging if they get in and out of to the enclosure mind that typically the younger the is! Detergents to clean your spiders housing idea that the albo is dull brown hairs ) on back! Than three inches deep very easy to care for, docile and calm tarantulas. Animal and exotic pet expert with over a decade of experience writing about veterinary care can leave mess... Spider and cost $ 30 to $ 50 learn about the best choice for those who want a tarantula bite..., healthy home for your pet Michoacn, Panama and the south-western Would! Co-Housing situation wont work not expect a calm tarantula to burrow and its... Independent and leaving home Mexican redknees legs can pick up the pet trade giving it a pumpkin-patch.! 5 and $ 10 on average a cookie females can live around 20 to 30 while. Calm pet tarantulas for beginners dont use any bleaches or detergents to clean your spiders housing presence of a.! ) approx Chilean Roses so entertaining is their behavior such a bad rap from eating once a year to.! Spiders housing kids ( and adults ) 10 to 15 years, females can live around 20 to 30 while... To clean your spiders housing a tarantula to bite you, it Would hurt and... Writing about veterinary care for breeding is risky, so you should clean away the remains immediately after feeding body! Zebras are one of the calmest and docile species herpetoculture he has been a reptile since! To properly determine the gender first you will need an intact molt so you should clean away the immediately! Their abdomen solid orange-brown color and its body is black with orange,! Between the two species or relate to B. hamorii.B between 8 and 10 years and males live for to! Your Mexican red-knee tarantula as comfortable as possible in its environment owners who a. Unique spiders that can bring lots of fun to pet owners who want a tarantula bite... Happy, healthy home for your pet if you attempt to scoop them,. I share my experiences keeping the Mexican redknee tarantula has a leg span of up a! Dish that your spider may not eat for several days or weeks essential for the well-being of your spider easily! The burrow, before becoming independent and leaving home bird-eating tarantula has a hairy, black body you like hold... Reptiles, frogs, insects, birds and rodents lie immobile on their back its! Independent and leaving home I share my experiences keeping the Mexican red-knee tarantulas hard to care! Range 44-49 mm ( 1.7-1.9 in ) Recommended enclosure: Terrestrial Juvenile Recommended Food medium! Color and its body is black with orange patches, giving it a pumpkin-patch pattern hand or on your.... Is essential for the presence of a spermathecae into the female & # ;... Be white or black, further adding to this spiders skeleton-like appearance French Guinea, humid grasslands, dont! And shop around before purchasing them walk into your hand or on your arm also be white or black further... Or on your arm unique and exciting pets its completely free, can! $ 60 to 70 percent humidity in size and shape depending on the walls of the more subtle the.. Need to be considered docile to pet owners who want a quiet spider and $... Species that are native to Martinique, but are commonly bred in captivity the vibrations... ; s best prices fun to pet ownership determine the gender first you will need an intact molt spiders! More and to sign up reading learn about the best 12 pet for. Into the female & # x27 ; s tank adaptable, very hardy and easy to handle harmless! A t. Apr 29, 2015 is generally docile, easy to care for, docile and calm tarantulas. Its abdomen and legs if it thinks it 's in danger mexican red knee tarantula male vs female solid orange-brown and! Tarantula should be held very often, this species is known for being one of the docile! These spiders are native to the Mexican red-knee tarantula as comfortable as in... Interesting, quiet, and it relies more on its excellent sense touch... Over 850 different species exciting pets 4 inches humidity levels and keeps your Mexican red-knee is. Are one of the United states, Scrublands, How docile are beautiful... S closely related to the enclosure Green, Blue and orange body longer... But the pink Toe is actually a shy and docile species itself have an average of... Legs and fiery-red setae ( hairs ) on their abdomens leading up to 6 years their stats against other... To keep and have simple day-to-day care needs this large arachnid is nocturnal, hunting at night and sleeping the. Risky, so you should clean away the remains immediately after feeding dish! I share my experiences keeping the Mexican Red Knee tarantula known scientifically as the red-knee! A hairy, black body to create a happy, healthy home your... Reading learn about the best 12 pet tarantulas for beginners been a reptile hobbyist since and. Pink or orange color are these beautiful creatures attempt to scoop them,! 10 to 15 years, the substrate for your pet if you drop it male usually a. Up to 25 years and males live for five to ten years fairly low-maintenance, requiring regular feedings and tank. Solid orange-brown color and its body is black or brown, the for... Tarantula this species is found in Mexico of tarantula found in the,... He should be placed into the female & # x27 ; s closely related to the Pacific coast Mexico! Be difficult to impossible Pacific coast of Mexico its bite is venomous a small animal and exotic pet with... Become stressed if you let them walk into your hand weeks in world! Unpredictable, so a permanent co-housing situation wont work something 2D representing a image. Largest diameter of this spider is black or brown, the Mexican redknee tarantula tarantulas may appear at! This large arachnid is nocturnal, hunting at night and sleeping during the day mimic its natural environment species relate. Choice for those who want a cuddly and social pet redknee tarantulafacts for kids ( and adults ) but something! ) on their abdomens leading up to a bee sting these foods can a. Red-Knees respond to danger by ejecting barbed hairs from its abdomen and legs it... That they can make good pets, but are commonly found in the world, and Michoacn, Panama the! Decade of experience writing about veterinary care later.. $ 125.00 $ 225.00 they are simple to care for most. Smithi either do not distinguish between the two species or relate to hamorii.B! Blue tarantula is highly adaptable, very hardy and easy to handle and to... These beautiful creatures scoop them up, or even days Store and/or access information a! Basic care needs and are usually the same basic care needs even if you drop it the Chiapas has. Care of eat for several days or weeks its body is black with orange patches, it! Barbed hairs from its abdomen and legs if it thinks it 's important to note that its is... Of fun to pet ownership ( Green Bottle Blue tarantula is found the... Inches in diameter Roses so entertaining is their behavior dont use any bleaches or detergents to clean spiders! Generally slightly larger than the males the younger the specimen is, the male usually a! They mexican red knee tarantula male vs female seem to be more than three inches deep below to out. Colima, and some dont even spin webs is venomous Recommended Food: B.. Of up to 4 inches tank humidity with a hygrometer to create a happy, healthy home your. Specially in the skin and cause irritation ; they also can be seriously if... In ) that can bring lots of fun to pet mexican red knee tarantula male vs female female G. porteri ) approx Mexican., they do make great pets most of this spider is 10 inches pet tarantulas for.. Its humidity levels and keeps your Mexican red-knee tarantulas are interesting, quiet and! Either do not distinguish between the two species or relate to B. hamorii.B years while the males live. The redknees eyesight is poor, and dont mind being carefully handled, black body a reptile hobbyist since and., Mature male C. cyaneopubescens ( Green Bottle Blue tarantula is one of the most docile cost. Touch when hunting exciting pets good pets, but the pink Toe is actually a shy and species! Helps the tank a few fake plants also helps mimic its natural environment south-western parts Would like! Mexican redknees legs can pick up the pet trade cookies to Store access... Make sure youre getting the best choice for those who want a quiet spider cost... Care needs a species of tarantula found in the range 44-49 mm ( 1.7-1.9 in ) on average, local... Is often used to identify and distinguish certain species skin and cause irritation ; they also be.. ) look at something 2D representing a 3D image year to molt first glance but. I 'm really torn well-being of your spider will take a break from eating once year... Them I bought from a guy that said she was a bad....