What is a Blue Tarantula?
A blue tarantula, formally known as Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens, is a species of tarantula that is native to Venezuela and is also known as the “Caribbean blue.” The unusual blue coloring of these spiders makes them one of the most ancient and distinct species of tarantula on the planet, and their unusual hue has earned them a spot in the hearts of animal enthusiasts and spider collectors the world over.
What Does a Blue Tarantula Look Like?
Despite their small size, blue tarantulas are quite striking due to their relatively vibrant shade of blue. Typically, the head, abdomen, and legs of a blue tarantula exhibit a sapphire blue color, while the joints, face, and middle of the legs appear to be a deep purple color. Depending on the age, sex, and overall health of the tarantula, its coloration may vary somewhat, but the presence of the blue is easily recognizable. The size of the blue tarantula is quite small; when fully grown they hover around four inches in length, with females being larger than males.
Blue Tarantula Diet & Natural Habitats
Blue tarantulas, like all tarantulas, feed primarily on insects and other small invertebrates, such as smaller spiders and centipedes. They also sometimes feed on lizards and small mammals, although this is rare and typically only happens in the wild. Blue tarantulas typically live in dry, warm desert climates and in arid savannas. They spend the bulk of their time in burrows, and typically come out at night to forage for food.
Behavior & Handling of Blue Tarantulas
When it comes to tarantulas, blue tarantulas vary from other species in a few key ways. For one, they tend to be less aggressive and “bouncier” than other tarantulas, due to the fact that they are faster-moving than other species. While their behavior can vary somewhat depending on their individual personalities, they will typically take off quickly when approached by potential predators. This behavior also applies when a blue tarantula is handled by humans. As such, it is important for handlers to be aware of their environment and be extremely cautious when handling these spiders.
Vital Considerations for Owning a Blue Tarantula
Before bringing any kind of tarantula, including a blue tarantula, into your home, it’s important to make sure that you educate yourself about the care and needs of the species. Additionally, the environment for the tarantula should be created prior to obtainment to ensure that the animal can be kept in the best possible conditions. The cage for the tarantula should be kept clean, and filled with substrate material – such as shredded coconut husk or peat moss – on the bottom. It should also have additions such as plants, vines, and driftwood which will create a safe hide and allow the tarantula to climb. Additionally, the cage should include a water bowl.
The temperature and humidity of the environment in which the tarantula will live is also important. Generally, blue tarantulas should be kept at temperatures between 70-85°F, and the humidity should be around 60-70%. The temperature should also be monitored consistently, as drastic changes in the environment could result in illness or death of the tarantula.
Finally, blue tarantulas should be fed appropriately – typically every two to three weeks. The food should either be captured prey or commercially produced food specialized for arthropods. Don’t overfeed or feed too frequently, as this can be dangerous for the health of the tarantula.
Blue tarantulas are part of a rare species of tarantulas. This vibrant species is one of the most ancient and distinct tarantulas on the planet, and the sapphire blue coloring of their legs and abdomen is a sight to behold! If you’d like to own a blue tarantula as a pet, it’s important to educate yourself regarding their care and needs, and create an appropriate environment prior to obtaining one. With the right care and attention, owning a blue tarantula can be an extremely rewarding and enjoyable experience.
