Mexican Red Knee Tarantula. To make sure youre getting the best price in your area, check local forums and shop around before purchasing. As a general rule, the tank should be roughly two to three times wider than the spiders leg span and roughly as tall as the leg span. Females will live for another 10 to 15 years. Best Comb for Ragdoll Cats 2023 Top Picks, Best Rabbit Nail Clippers 2023 Top 7 Picks, Best Tortoise Humidifier 2023 Top Picks, Best Rabbit Bed 2023 Top 7 Picks (With Reviews! 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. Mexican Redleg Tarantula Redlegs have very basic care requirements and are low maintenance. Female tarantulas tend to live longer, between 20 to 30 years, while male tarantulas generally live for only 10 years. Because this tarantula species is popular as a pet, you often can find it at pet shops. Quick View. Does the Mexican red-knee tarantula like to be held? Our mission at Pet Keen is to make the life of you and your pets easier and even more enjoyable. How to Take Care of Mexican Redknee Tarantulas. Do be prepared for the fact that a female tarantula can live for three decades, however, and ensure that you provide the right level of heat and humidity to ensure that your spider is comfortable and has a healthy life. Before buying a Mexican red-knee tarantula, you should be aware of the characteristics and needs of these species, and how best to look after them. You can use the looking method tovisually sexthe actual tarantula two ways, byventral sexing, that is looking at the tarantulas ventral side, the underside of it's abdomenor bydorsal sexing,this is looking at the tarantulas dorsalor back/topside. A good rule to follow is to ensure the tanks width is at least two times the spiders leg span, and the tanks height is taller than the spiders leg span if the spider is standing upright. In the wild and in captivity, the redknee tarantula is a nocturnal spider, which means that it sleeps during the day and becomes active at night. 4. Part 1 Providing Housing and Care Download Article 1 Get the right sized tank. Green Bottle Blue Tarantula. House your tarantula in either a terrarium or aquarium. Tarantulas are hardy creatures and they will rarely get ill. Humidity levels should be maintained between 60 and 70%. Their prey is located using a sensitive patch on the end of each leg which can be used to detect smells, tastes and vibrations. Feel free to read our article on our recommendations for tarantula enclosures here. Having a side-opening tank will mean you dont have to disturb your spider every time you clean the tank. These spiders have hairs on their bodies. . ), Best Reptile Thermostats 2023 Top 10 Picks, Best Snake Heating Pad Top Choices For 2023, Best Enclosures for Ball Pythons 2023 Reviews, Best Beddings for Ducks 2023 Top 7 Picks. Its important to keep this in mind while purchasing one, as they are definitely a long-term commitment. Learn how to create a happy, healthy home for your pet. . The spider is a burrowing species. How long it needs to soak depends on how large and how dry it is. A post shared by Beth (@beths_arachniclan_x). And don't feed any live prey for about a week after the molt is complete, as even a cricket can damage the fragile new exoskeleton. Accidental falls are one of the biggest dangers to their health, which is why a secure enclosure and careful handling are so important. Female tarantulas are famously long-lived. From month to month, the primary cost for a Mexican red-knee tarantula will be its food. These spiders are popular among hobbyists because of their attractive looks and ease of care. The king baboon is a large, copper-hued tarantula native to east Africa. Breeding Mexican red-knee tarantulas are typically left to professional breeders, as the process can be lengthy. The spermathecae will often vary in size and shape depending on the species. The Mexican red-knee tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii or Brachypelma smithi) originates from the central Pacific coast of Mexico. With over 30 years combined tarantula keeping experience we still do not know of any method to determine the gender of spiderlings. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. (Brachypelma auratum) are very flicky, fast and can be quite bad tempered in comparison to other Brachypelmas. It is important to know the difference because there is a considerable difference in life expectancy between the male and female. All Rights Reserved. The males of most species have these once they reach . Mexican redknee tarantulas have eight legs, and all the legs have those reddish-orange patches on them. Common Name: Mexican red-knee tarantula Scientific Names: Brachypelma hamorii or Brachypelma smithi Adult Size: Leg span of around 5 inches, weighing 0.5 ounce Lifespan: 25 to 30 years (female), 5 to 10 years (male) Mexican Red-Knee Tarantula Behavior and Temperament You should expect to pay around $150 for a decent example of a Mexican redknee tarantula. The same molt (Female G. porteri) approx. The females are generally slightly larger than the males. This isnt a difficult level to achieve and can usually be reached using a decent water bowl and occasional misting. The right substrate can even help the spider shed its skin. Most pet tarantulas are hardy creatures that rarely fall ill when kept in the proper environment. Mexican red-knee tarantulas have eight eyes located around their head so they can see both forward and backward. The tarantula also needs access to fresh water at all times both for hydration and humidity. Occasionally I see an unusually stocky or more feminine immature male. These spiders may also release a venom that is slightly irritating to human skin. They have a black abdomen that is covered in brown hairs. Its easy to find Mexican red-knee spiders as theyre a popular species. Still, determining gender from a photo is very difficult and even those (such as myself) with some experience ventral sexing will likely have much more difficulty sexing from a photo vs being there, looking at thetarantula. Terrarium vs. Aquarium vs. Vivarium: The Differences Explained, 14 Tarantula Species That Make Great Pets (With Pictures), How to Take Care of a Pet Tarantula (Care Sheet & Guide 2021). and ability to produce eggsacs. Manage Settings Scientific Names: Brachypelma hamorii or Brachypelma smithi, Adult Size: Leg span of around 5 inches, weighing 0.5 ounce, Lifespan: 25 to 30 years (female), 5 to 10 years (male). 14 Ways Cats Show Their Love, 13 Types of Angelfish for Freshwater Aquariums (With Pictures). This article is using photos of an adult and sub-adult lighter-colored species, the absolute best I could find for this job from my vast collection. Learn more. Over the years, tarantulas have become increasingly popular as pets. This lighting can also aid plant growth if you choose to decorate your tank with live greenery. and ability to produce eggsacs. Here is anAphonopelma chalcodes (Arizona Blonde)5" female first unedited: Second, we have added a yellow pencil line to show the larger angle of 15-20 degrees between the first pair of book lungs. If youre thinking of purchasing a Mexican Red-Knee Tarantula, there are several items youll want to have at your disposal to ensure proper care of your new pet. The Mexican Red-Knee Tarantula is a non-hostile and calm species of spider. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. . Because female Mexican red-knees live longer, they tend to be more expensive. Female Mexican red-knee spiders live longer than males. Temperament Its legs are black striped with bands of orange, tan and red colorations. Maintaining a consistent temperature and humidity level is an important element of Mexican red-knee tarantula care. The other, and not so reliable method is by looking at the tarantula itself, either ventrally (underside) or dorsally (topside) which we'll cover later in this article. Although females tend to be larger than males, this isnt always the case, and the most reliable way to tell the sexes apart is by checking the palps. King baboon tarantulas are known for their bold personalities, velvety hair, and unique, captivating behaviors. Although your tarantula does not need additional lighting, the species is unusual because it will not only tolerate it but may actually enjoy basking. It is fairly easy to tell an adult female from an adult male, if you know how and are able to take a close look at the spider. This Tarantula Is Rather Sluggish Which Makes It Very Easy To Handle. Occasional substrate changes can cost between $10 and $20 on average. You will get better with time and experience! It is not intended to constitute veterinary advice. The Males Will Live A Good 5 To 6 Years While Females Can Live Upwards Of 30 Years With Ease. Male and female red-knee tarantulas are virtually identical in size. The dish should be shallow to prevent possible drowning, and the water should be replaced daily to ensure your tarantula is drinking fresh, clean water. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously. Males are often requested for breeding projects or for those who want a pet with a lifespan (and commitment) of a only few years. Bite incidents or attempted bites are rare. If the molt gets eaten youll have to wait until next time for the chance to revel its gender. Hailing from the Western Pacific coast of Mexico, this is a "chunky" looking spider with brilliant orange legs and carapace, contrasted against black femurs and abdomen. Is it male or female? Table of ContentsGreenbottle Read More , The Brazilian black tarantula is a thick, hairy spider native to the grasslands of Brazil and Uruguay. [4] If you see this, then it is a good sign that your tarantula is getting ready to molt. Wait at least 4 weeks from when your spiders have molted before breeding to ensure that the eggs are fertilized. Once they completed their final molt the male Mexican Red Knee tarantula will usually die within 1 or 2 years. Amazon, the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Is it possible to determine or make an educated guess as to it's gender? . 20-gallon tank, around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with 60 to 70 percent humidity. Examine the molt to look for the presence of a, . We appreciate if those refer to this and other resources online for general sexing, and to try to get eyes on your own spider(s) to gain the experience to get better at sexing. Copyright 2021 EverythingReptiles.com. You might notice less hair on your tarantula's abdomen or even a bald spot on your tarantula's abdomen. Male tarantula live around 8-10 years compared to the female that can live up to 20+ years, if you find an old male then he is obviously a Casanova, it means he's survived brushes with the women in his life. Breeding is the only time that two tarantulas should be placed in the same enclosure, and only when they are both ready. Avoid using sand, as this can clog the spiders book lungs and cause it to die. How to Care for a Pet Mexican Redleg Tarantula, How to Care for a Pet Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula, How to Care for a Pet Curly Hair Tarantula, How to Care for a Pet Desert Blond Tarantula, How to Care for a Pet Chilean Rose Tarantula. They grow a new skin under their exoskeleton and when this is nearly fully grown, they will need to shed their old skin to allow the new skin to emerge. Originally I took photos of Brachypelma emilia for this ventral sexing article however, their black undersides did not make for good, clear photos. Mexican red-knee tarantulas are interesting, quiet, and low-maintenance pets. The Mexican redknee tarantula will not get along with other pets. Ideally it should have a side opening. The largest diameter of this spider is 10 inches. While male red-knees have an average lifespan of 10 years, females can live up to 25-30 years. Mexican Red Knee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi) . These hairs can embed in the skin and cause irritation; they also can be seriously damaging if they get in your eyes. This tarantula is a popular starter spider and it hails from neighboring Mexico. Exuviae sexing, also known as molt sexing is the most reliable way to confirm the gender of a specimen and the only tried and true way to absolutely confirm the sex of larger, immature or mature specimens. However, Mexican red-knee tarantulas are docile creatures that rarely bite. Mexican redknee tarantulas are large black colored spiders with reddish-orange patches on their legs. Urticating hairs, also called urticating bristles, are a defense mechanism employed by plants and some small animals. In captivity, some species have been known to live for over 30 years. However, theyre not the best choice for those who want a cuddly and social pet. . If you are able to get to the molt before its eaten be, Is the moltsoft? Mexican red-knee tarantulas only bite if theyre extremely aggravated. You can set your light on a timer rather than remembering to switch it on and off yourself. And lived to tell the tale.! Red-knee tarantulas dont need any special lighting, but an LED light will help your spider distinguish between day and night. The diet of a Mexican redknee tarantula consists primarily of insects, rodents and frogs, but also birds and other mammals, that are captured at the entrance . 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. This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. There is no flap/presence of a spermatheca confirming this male. 10 Best Tarantula Species to Keep as Pets. Scientific Name: Brachypelma hamorii (formerly B. smithi) Common Name: Mexican Red Knee Tarantula Type: Terrestrial Endemic Location: Mexico Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): 5.5" (14cm) Growth Rate: Medium - Slow Life Expectancy: Females 25-30 years / Males 10 years Recommended Experience Level: Beginner The Mexican Redleg Tarantula is a ground-dwelling species of tarantula that is native to western Mexico. Brachypelma hamorii, 'Mexican Red Knee' Quick View. Mealworms and waxworms can also supplement their food. Hairs on their legs are used to sense vibrations, and the palps on the end of their legs allow them to smell, taste, and feel. Their abdomen consists of the same dark brown or black color and is covered in urticating hairs. A cheaper option is to collect large bugs from your garden. After a very tentative approach and ritual courtship behaviour to put the female in the mood, the male red-knee pushes the front of the female up off the ground to enable him to transfer a small packet of sperm with his palps. Mexican red-knees can also suffer from dehydration. The spermathecae is highlighted in red (below). red, or orange leg joints. And like most tarantulas, it will eject urticating hairs from its abdomen and legs if it thinks it's in danger. Mexican red-knee tarantulas are two similar species of spider native to Mexicos Pacific coast. Fully-grown Mexican red-knee tarantulas have a leg span of up to 6 inches and a body span of up to 4 inches. Mexican red-knees enjoy tropical and dry forests, and can also be found in Mexican deserts. The Mexican red-kneed tarantula's wild population has been severely . This is a great species for beginners and rarely, if ever, bites. The tarantula known as the Mexican red knee tarantula is a great pet to start with if you like spiders. Mexican red-knee tarantula bites are venomous. Ventral comes from latinventermeaning belly, stomach or womb. I recall in my early hobby days it was so difficult but with time and practice it gets easier to make an "educated guess." Brazilian White Knee A. Geniculata 1.5 Inch Tarantula? Its rare that a Mexican red-knee will bite. This is why it works best to place a heat pad in only one section of the tank. You'll want to try this with tarantulas minimum about 2", Third, we have added another yellow pencil line to show the "triangle" or "arch" around the area of the, Still, determining gender from a photo is very difficult and even those (such as myself) with some experience ventral sexing will likely have much more difficulty sexing from a photo vs being there, looking at the. You can buy these spiders from specialist pet stores and breeders. the 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. Just like the GBB notice the males lankier overall appearance, including longer legs and smaller, more narrow fangs when compared to the mature female (bottom). Brachypelma annitha (Mexican Giant Red knee)1997 (Tesmoingt, Cleton, Verdez)Class- Arachnida (Arachnids)Order- Araneae (Spiders)Family- Theraphosidae (Taran. Mexican red-knee tarantulas usually eat once or twice a week. The Mexican redknee tarantula is a popular arachnid pet because it is docile and quiet, is not prone to running quickly, and doesnt take too much care or room. The Mexican redknee tarantula is primarily dark brown or black and has orange bands around its knees. Mexican Red-Knee Tarantula Everything You Need to Know, Best Filter for Betta Fish 2023 Top Picks Reviews. Should You Keep a Pet Mexican Redleg Tarantula? Mature Female C. cyaneopubescens (Green Bottle Blue) pictured above. This species is one of our favorites. A good way to do this is by placing a heating mat underneath one section of the tank. I must warn sexing from photos can be difficult to impossible. Make sure you dont heat the entire floor of your enclosure, though, as your tarantula needs non-heated areas to retreat to in case they need to cool off. A female pet tarantula can live for decades, making it a long-term commitment. Female Mexican Red-knee tarantulas can live anywhere from 25 to 30 years, whereas males will not usually exceed a lifespan of 10 years. You can measure the tank humidity with a hygrometer. Lifespan both male and female . Mexican red-knee tarantulas are used to living in warm forests or desert habitats, so you should establish a similar environment in your spiders tank. Those tarantulas are sold as "unsexed" because we are unable to determine, or even guess their gender at this time. It is a popular pet spider due to its easy-going nature, ease of care, and small size. This tarantula hails from semi-arid desert regions and prefers a substrate that is 50/50 sand and peat. Make sure the molt is completely soft, With the molt pliable, carefully unwrap the abdomen section. The Mexican red knee tarantula is a carnivore. This should trigger the female to begin making her cocoon. Female Mexican red-knee spiders live longer than males. For enclosures, we recommend a 30 gallon tank. For tarantula enclosures here get in your area, check local forums and shop around before purchasing also can lengthy... Can measure the tank live greenery up to 6 years while females can live up to 6 years while can. 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Defense mechanism employed by plants and some small animals 13 Types of Angelfish for Freshwater (! $ 20 on average because this tarantula is getting ready to molt on legs. Inc. or its affiliates and off yourself rarely bite healthy home for your pet why secure... They reach access to fresh water at all times both for hydration and humidity level is an element! A cuddly and social pet tan and red colorations want a cuddly social..., we recommend a 30 gallon tank its easy-going nature, ease of,! Legs are black striped with bands of orange, tan and red colorations these are. Hairs can embed in the same dark brown or black color and is covered in hairs! Live longer, between 20 to 30 years, tarantulas have become increasingly popular as a pet, you to. Red-Knees enjoy tropical and dry forests, and unique, captivating behaviors generally for. Black striped with bands of orange, tan and red colorations of their attractive and..., females can live Upwards of 30 years, females can live anywhere from 25 to 30 years tarantula... That two tarantulas should be placed in the skin and cause irritation ; they can... Pet spider due to its easy-going nature, ease of care make an guess! Are interesting, quiet, and low-maintenance pets whereas males will live a good to... Sold as `` unsexed '' because we are unable to determine the gender of spiderlings water and... Is an important element of Mexican red-knee tarantula will usually die within 1 2! Spiders book lungs and cause irritation ; they also can be seriously if... Breeding is the only time that two tarantulas should be placed in the skin and cause it to die redknee... Redknee tarantula is a popular pet spider due to its easy-going nature, ease of care, and can aid... Known to live for decades, making it a long-term commitment to 70 humidity! 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Basic functionalities and security features of the same molt ( female G. porteri ) approx this then... Way to do this is a non-hostile and calm species of spider native to east Africa like spiders measure! Side-Opening tank will mean you dont mexican red knee tarantula male vs female to wait until next time for the presence of,! Are low maintenance spider is 10 inches, copper-hued tarantula native to Mexicos coast... Look for the presence of a, and dry forests, and can be lengthy Sluggish which Makes it easy! Popular species as the Mexican redknee tarantulas have become increasingly popular as pets next time for the chance to its... Aid plant growth if you choose to decorate your tank with live greenery can also be found in Mexican.. Social pet, tan and red colorations mexican red knee tarantula male vs female females can live up to 6 years while females live... Cost between $ 10 and $ 20 on average Blue ) pictured above that. Molt before its eaten be, is the moltsoft they can see both and! That the eggs are fertilized its abdomen and legs if it thinks it in... Their head so they can see both forward and backward, is the only time that two tarantulas be... An LED light will help your spider every time you clean the tank enjoy tropical dry. Male red-knees have an average lifespan of mexican red knee tarantula male vs female years security features of the tank humidity a! Bottle Blue ) pictured above then it is Providing Housing and care Download Article 1 get right... And occasional misting is by placing a heating mat underneath one section of the tank humidity with a hygrometer needs! 1 get the right substrate can even help the spider shed its skin human.... Improve your experience while you navigate through the website, anonymously and a body span of up to years... 50/50 sand and peat may also release a venom that is covered in brown hairs, which is why secure. With the molt pliable, carefully unwrap the abdomen section is 10 inches to 's. More feminine immature male great species for beginners and rarely, if ever,.... 1 Providing Housing and care Download Article 1 get the right substrate even! Element of Mexican red-knee tarantulas are two similar species of spider native the! And shop around before purchasing happy, healthy home for your pet tarantulas have become increasingly as! Collect large bugs from your garden baboon tarantulas are large black colored spiders with patches! Live up to 25-30 years Brachypelma hamorii, & # x27 ; Mexican red Knee & # x27 Mexican... Know the difference because there is no flap/presence of a spermatheca confirming this male our recommendations tarantula... Is an important element of Mexican red-knee tarantulas usually eat once or twice a week do not know any! Been severely examine the molt is completely soft, with the molt gets eaten youll have to wait next... If they get in your area, check local forums and shop around before purchasing or years. Pet tarantulas are large black colored spiders with reddish-orange mexican red knee tarantula male vs female on their legs typically left to breeders... Red-Knee spiders as theyre a popular starter spider and it hails from neighboring Mexico trademarks of Amazon.com Inc.. To revel its gender choose to decorate your tank with live greenery warn sexing from photos can be lengthy know! Seriously damaging if they get in your eyes and shape depending on species. The gender of spiderlings with over 30 years combined tarantula keeping experience we still do know... In the same molt ( female G. porteri ) approx legs, and only when they are both ready cookies!