Vitalius chromatus spiderling • 1/2″ (Brazilian red and white tarantula)

Description

A hobby classic, Vitalius chromatus (ex. Nhandu) has been around since 2004. Well, it was in the hobby for a little longer, called Acanthoscurria geniculata by mistake.

A number of internet references say V. chromatus is found in Brazil and Paraguay rainforest, presumably meaning southern Brazil and Paraguay, which share a border. However, the type locality for V. chromatus is the border between Piauí and Ceará in eastern Brazil. These areas are dry savannah to semi-desert (Cerrado to Caatinga).

The important point is that contrary to too many internet references, rather than rainforest, V. chromatus comes from a dry region. Brazil’s semi-arid east has expanses of dry grassland dotted with small deciduous trees and seasonal rainfall (Cerrado) merging into even drier areas with fewer trees, thorny scrub and cacti Caatinga).

Spiderlings however, as always, do require more moisture than adults. Keep them over slightly dampened substrate and limit ventilation to allow humidity to build. Any temperature between 70-80F will do. Growth is faster at higher temperatures, but also the rate of substrate drying. At higher temperatures, if daily inspection is not possible a water dish may help avert accidental dehydration. As your spiderling matures into juvenile and semi-adult instars, reduce enclosure moisture stepwise.

Photos: 1-adult female(Władek Gomółka); 2-adult female (stock)

Care highlights:

• slightly dampened substrate for spiderlings
• elevated humidity +/- water dish support
• room temperature (68-72F) up to 80F
• less moisture for juveniles through adults
• consider a hide, forest littler and plantings for enrichment