Brachypelma klaasi spiderling • 1/2″ (Mexican pinkleg tarantula)

Description

Hobbyists quickly came to favor Brachypelma klaasi, known to science since 1994. B. klaasi is superficially similar to B. boehmei, but the red in the legs is paler, pinkish according to some. Furthermore, the carapace is dark, different from the lighter brown carapace of B. boehmei. Like all other red-legged Brachypelma, B. klaasi inhabit dry, forested terrain and have high drought tolerance. Growth is slow and steady. Captive females mature in 5 years or so, depending on feeding rate and temperature. They reach maximum size in the 5+” range. A hardy and long-lived species, B. klaasi 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. klaasi tend not to dig, they are opportunistic burrowers. They’ll make use of a hide if provided. The Mexican pinkleg tarantula is almost always fully or partly seen, making health checks and feeding easy. Temperament is similar to other Brachypelma, less skittish than that of B. boehmei. They’ll flick hairs when disturbed, a common Brachypelma trait.

B. klaasi availability tends to be patchy. They come from a rather limited area in western Mexico and like all Brachypelma, are protected by international CITES agreement. With colorfulness, beauty, docility and keeping ease, the Mexican pinkleg tarantula instantly became a hobby a classic.

Photos: 1-one of the specimens for sale

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