Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens female • 2″ (GBB, green bottle blue)

Description

In 1888 one “Dr. Ludwig” collected a blue spider in Paraguaná, Venezuela. In 1907 Embrik Strand described the preserved specimen and after a genus revision it became known as Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens.

Paraguaná is a peninsula in northern Venezuela. But for a tiny isthmus it is an island in the Caribbean. Paraguaná has a dry climate associated with coastal dunes and desert flora (Paraguaná xeric scrub) and fauna. Paraguaná’s biogeography contrasts with continental Venezuela, home to Psalmopoeus irminia and Theraphosa apophysis. Indeed, knowledge of Paraguaná’s biogeography and climate have helped surmount C. cyaneopubescens breeding difficulty.

Raising C. cyaneopubescens is easy. All instars are hardy, particularly so beyond the first few. Desert conditions need not (best not) be mimicked. In the wild this spider spends most of its time away from the heat of day. Captive specimens prefer hides to digging. Adult coloration appears at 3” or so. Temperament is mid-range so best to avoid mishaps by keeping hands away.

Care highlights:

• partly dry substrate for juveniles and older
• slightly elevated humidity +/- water dish support
• room temperature (68-72F) up to 80F
• consider a hide, forest litter and plantings for enrichment

This video shows C. cyaneopubescens in the wild (scroll to 16:30).

This webpage shows C. cyaneopubescens in a biotopic terrarium.

Photos: 1-sibling of specimen for sale (ArachnoEden); 2-similar specimen (ArachnoEden); 3-adult color (wawritto)