Description
Listed on this page are well-started spiderlings of the silverback birdeater, Lasiodora subcanens. Not commonly seen in the hobby, L. subcanens is a New World terrestrial of the same genus as the better-known L. parahybana, L. klugi and L. difficilis. As one might expect, L. subcanens is a large tarantula, matching other Lasiodora in length and bulk. Different in L. subcanens is its color. Hairs and background color are silver-grey, distinguishing at a glance L. subcanens from other hobby Lasiodora. The color pattern appears as spiderlings mature into juveniles.
As a general rule, baby tarantulas do better in higher humidity than the adult. Although these spiderlings are getting on in size, they’ll still do well on slightly dampened substrate (1 part water + 10 parts dry substrate) with ventilation limited enough to allow some humidity to build. Room temperature (68-72F) is fine although growth will be faster at 80F. A water dish will help prevent dehydration. As they reach juvenile stage and beyond, drier enclosures are preferable.
Females are sexually mature at about 7 inches. Like its famous cousin, L. parahybana, the silverback birdeater is hardy and fast growing with a somewhat skittish temperament. We’ve noticed no remarkable care exceptions.
Photos: 1-female (breeder); 2-juvenile female (ArachnoEden)
Care highlights:
- slightly dampened substrate for spiderings
- elevated humidity +/- water dish support
- room temperature (68-72F) up to 80F
- juveniles & older specimens can be kept on a drier substrate
- an opportunistic burrower, consider a hide
- consider dry scrub litter and plantings for enrichment
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