Vitalius chromatus female • 3″ (Brazilian red and white tarantula)

Description

Presented for sale is a juvenile Vitalius chromatus female (ex. Nhandu). A hobby classic, V. chromatus, the Brazilian red and white tarantula, has been around since 2004. It was in the hobby for a little longer actually, mistakenly called Acanthoscurria geniculata for several years.

A number of internet references say V. chromatus is found in Brazil and Paraguay rainforest. Presumably they’re referring to southern Brazil and Paraguay, which share a border. However, the type locality for V. chromatus is the border between Piauí and Ceará in eastern Brazil. These areas are dry savannah to semi-desert (Cerrado to Caatinga).

The important point is that contrary to many internet references, rather than rainforest, V. chromatus comes from a dry region. Brazil’s semi-arid east has expanses of dry grassland dotted with small deciduous trees and seasonal rainfall (Cerrado) merging into even drier areas with fewer trees, thorny scrub and cacti Caatinga).

Although we keep spiderlings, as always, over slightly dampened substrate, this juvenile female is old enough to have acquired some drought tolerance. Thus she’ll do fine over slightly dry substrate, with liberalized ventilation and perhaps a water dish. Any temperature between 70-80F will do. Growth is faster at higher temperatures (e.g., 75-85F), but so is the rate of substrate drying. Just keep her hydration in mind and she’ll do well. Many of us prefer to have a water dish available. Soaking one corner or end of a larger enclosure can also be helpful.

Photos: 1-specimen for sale (ArachnoEden); 2-adult female(Władek Gomółka); 3-adult female (stock)

Care highlights:

• slightly dry substrate for juveniles
• slightly elevated humidity +/- water dish support
• room temperature (68-72F) up to 80F
• less enclosure moisture for juveniles through adults
• consider a hide, forest littler and plantings for enrichment