Phormictopus auratus male • 2″ (Cuban bronze tarantula)

Description

Listed for sale is a male juvenile Phormictopus auratus.

The Cuban bronze tarantula, Phormictopus auratus, is widespread on the island. Interestingly, P. auratus spiderlings are brown, unlike the blue Phormictopus spiderlings on neighboring Hispaniola. Named for the gold highlights on its carapace, female P. auratus are large and robust. In captivity they live on the order of 15-20 years. Males mature in 3-4 years and live about another year as full adults.

While baby tarantulas in general do better with some humidity, juveniles and adults have more drought tolerance. House this fella on slightly dry substrate and limit ventilation enough to allow just a bit of humidity to accumulate. A water dish will help avert unintentional dehydration while you adjust ventilation to suit your home’s climate. Feed once or twice weekly.

Photos: 1-adult male (ArachnoEden); 2-male and female 2-inch juveniles, recent molt and intermolt (ArachnoEden); 3-female with adult color (ArachnoEden)

Care highlights:

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