by Ryan Huether

1. Endangered in its natural range due to overharvesting for the pet trade, Josh’s Frogs hopes to help reduce its plight by captive breeding.
2. Iridescent blue coloration.
3. Native to an ecological island.

Name:

Pterinopelma sazimai: Brazilian blue tarantula,  the genus name translates to pterino- wing and -pelma sole of foot. The specific epithet sazimai is the latinized name of Dr. Ivan Sazima who first collected the species. The common name references the spider’s national origin and iridescent blue hairs.

Recommended Enclosure Size:

The tarantula should be kept in a terrarium whose width is 3-4x’s its legspan. 35cmx30cmx30cm works well for adults. Include enough substrate for the spider to burrow in. Brazilian blues inhabit rocky areas in their native habitat so some rocks may be included as well. Be careful, however, that the rocks are not situated so they won't collapse in on the tarantula when it begins to burrow.

Temperature:

70-75°F during the day and 60-65°F at night.

Humidity:

60-70%.

Size:

At least ½”. Grows up to 6”.

Age:

Lifespan is uncertain. Little reliable information is available. One source states that the female is able to live for up to 12 years. Males reach maturity in 2 years. Females may do so in 3.

Feeding:

Drosophila melanogaster or D. hydei. As it grows, so should its prey. Prey items should be no larger than the size of the spider’s abdomen. Remove uneaten prey items: these may endanger the spider during molting. Spiderlings can be fed as frequently as they are willing to eat, but should be fed at least twice a week otherwise.

Sexing:

To identify a male or female before it has reached sexual maturity, you will need to examine its cast skin which in females will have a folded area in the abdominal region which will eventually connect to her spermatheca when she is mature. Due to their age, Brazilian blue taranutlas sold by Josh's Frogs are sold as unsexed animals.

Color/Pattern:

A handsome iridescent blue tarantula with reddish-orange hairs on its abdomen.

Social Behavior:

This tarantula should be kept singly.

Breeding:  

When breeding Brazilian blues, it is best to plan it for about one month after the female molts. If a molt follows the pairing before eggs can be laid, the reproductive material contributed by the male will be discarded in the process.The female should also be well fed prior to the paring. If successful, the female will eventually construct an egg sac which should be removed about four weeks after for incubation.

Natural Range:

Chapada Diamantina National Park in Bahia, Brazil.

History in the Hobby:

The Brazilian Blue tarantula is now endangered in its native range, in part due to overcollection for the pet trade.

Links of Interest:

• Arachnoboards: a community of spider enthusiasts that will be able to or have already answered almost any question you can think of with regards to tarantulas.

http://arachnoboards.com/

Still not sure if the Brazilian blue tarantula from Josh's Frog's is the right pet bug for you? Read the reviews below and see what other customers are saying!