Xenesthis intermedia female • 3 – 3 1/2″ (Venezuelan blue bloom)

Description

Listed for sale is a juvenile female Xenesthis intermedia. This X. intermedia juvenile is another a good entry specimen for those considering their first Xenesthis. As mentioned for X. immanis, 1) juveniles are a tad more robust than lower instars, 2) X. intermedia has been in the hobby for decades and keeper information exists, and 3) X. intermedia tends to be less expensive than some of its rarer brethren.

The type locality for X. intermedia is the southern foothills of the Venezuelan Andes in northwest Venezuela (La Unión). The south-facing slopes are the main watershed of the Orinoco [rather than] Amazon River; hence X. intermedia‘s common name, Venezuelan blue bloom. Altitude is only about 5,500 feet. Temperatures are 85-95F year round and average humidity is about 75% RH. Wet/dry montane forest is the primary vegetation type.

Room temperature (68-72F) and elevated humidity are good starting points for your X. immanis juvenile. The consequence of raising temperature is as always, faster growth and increased dryness. As long as measures are in place for maintaining enclosure moisture, she should be fine up to 80-85F.

The exact conditions you need will ultimately depend on the enclosure, enclosure ventilation and your home’s climate.

Photos: 1-specimen for sale, intermolt (ArachnoEden)

Care highlights:

• slightly dampened substrate
• elevated humidity +/- water dish support
• drier substrate for later instars, juveniles and adults
• room temperature (68-72F) up to 85F
• consider adding a hide, forest litter and plantings for enrichment