Defining Characteristics:

• As an adult, this species often has a golden starburst pattern over a dark carapace
• Tliltocatl kahlenbergi was described from specimens in captivity
• This is one of the smaller members of this genus

Name: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi is commonly known as the Vera Cruz Red Rump Tarantula. It was first described by Jan-Peter Rudloff in 2008. It was named after the German tarantula dealer Herwig Kahlenberg who had sent Rudloff the original specimens.

Recommended Enclosure Size & Setup: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi is a terrestrial species. The surface area of the enclosure should be no less than two times the spider's diagonal leg span in one direction and three times the diagonal leg span in the other. We recommend against allowing your terrestrial spider more than two times their diagonal leg span as head space above their substrate as a fall from any higher could result in serious injury.

The enclosure should be tall enough to accommodate 2-3 inches of substrate for slings and 4+ inches for adults.

ABG mix, coco cradle, or Dig-It are good substrate options, but our Pet Bug Team prefers ABG all the way! 

Temperature (°F): This species thrives in the mid 70s to low 80s. Temperatures regularly dipping below 65 or spiking above 85 degrees should be avoided.

A reliable thermometer is strongly recommended.

Humidity: These spiders thrive in a slightly dry to slightly humid environment, so the recommended ambient humidity should stay between 40% and 60%. This can be achieved by making sure that roughly 1/4 to 1/2 of the substrate is always slightly moistened with at 1/2 or more of the substrate staying dry. Depending on your location, you may need tools such as a humidifier to maintain this environment.

The enclosure sides and décor should be spritzed lightly around twice a week to provide your animal droplets to drink from and keep humidity up, but do not spray your spider directly.  

A hygrometer is a great way to monitor the humidity for your animal and see any needed adjustments. 

Size: These spiders are currently at least 2 inches. Adults grow to 3 to 4 inches. Females are bulkier, but males can have longer legs.

Age: These spiders are around 1 to 2 years old. They grow very slowly and live very long. Males mature at 4-5 years old and females at 5-7. Females can live 15+ years.

Feeding: These spiders are currently eating two to three 1/2 inch crickets, once a week. There are a variety of appropriate prey items that you can offer, such as roaches, waxworms, black soldier fly larvae, hornworms, and silkworms. Consider feeding your prey items with our gutload formula to give your pet well-rounded nutrition.

We recommend that the prey items not be much longer than the tarantula's “head” is wide. Larvae are an exception—our larvae are harmless. Since they are very high in fat, they're not the best staple diet, however they make a great weight gain supplement.

Remove uneaten prey items after 24 hours, these may stress your animal out or endanger the spider during molting. Never attempt to feed a freshly molted tarantula less than a week after their molt to prevent injury to the spider. Depending on its age, the hardening process could take anywhere from 48 hours all the way up to a week.

Sexing: Due to age, these Tliltocatl kahlenbergi sold by Josh’s Frogs are sold as unsexed. 

Color/Pattern: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi have dark legs and a dark carapace that often has a golden starburst pattern overtop of it. A black abdomen is overlaid with sparse, longer crimson hairs.                                                                                         

Social Behavior: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi is not a sociable animal and should be housed as an individual. Attempts at cohabitation can result in cannibalism. 

As an adult, this species tends to be fairly calm and slow to react defensively.

Natural Range: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi can be found in the wild in Vera Cruz, Mexico.

History in the Hobby: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi was first described in 2008 by Jan-Peter Rudloff. They are uncommon in the hobby.

 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.