Brachypelma boehmei • 1″ (Mexican fireleg tarantula)

Description

Hobbyists love Brachypelma boehmei, known to science since 1993. B. boehmei have more red (orange-red) than any other Brachypelma, well-deserving of the moniker ‘fireleg.’ Also like their cousins, B. boehmei inhabit dry, forested terrain and have high drought tolerance. Growth is slow and steady. Captive females mature in 3-5 years reaching maximum size in the 5+” range. A hardy and long-lived species, females may live 20+ years in captivity.

Larger captive specimens do well in enclosures with slightly dry substrate plus a water dish to allow them to adjust hydration as needed. Room temperature (68-72F) is fine. Warmer is okay, just keep an eye on water evaporation.

The smallest spiderlings do better in higher humidity. Keep them on slightly dampened substrate (1 part water + 10 parts dry substrate) and limit ventilation enough to allow some humidity to build. As they become juveniles, gradually establish a drier enclosure.

B. boehmei tend not to dig, they are opportunistic burrowers. However, they will make use of a hide if provided. The Mexican fireleg tarantula is almost always fully or partly seen, making health checks and feeding easy. Compared to other Brachypelma, B. boehmei seem to be a bit on the skittish side. They’ll flick hairs too, although flicking is a Brachypelma trait. With colorfulness, beauty, relative docility and keeping ease, the Mexican fireleg tarantula makes for a hobby a classic, a good first choice for those just entering the hobby.

Photos: 1-adult female (Jorge Mendoza); 2-immature female (ArachnoEden); 3-juvenile female (ArachnoEden)

Care highlights:

• slightly dampened substrate for spiderlings
• elevated humidity +/- water dish support
• room temperature (68-72F) up to 80F
• drier substrate and less humidity for juveniles though adults
• consider a hide, dry scrub litter and plantings for enrichment