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Acanthoscurria geniculata - Brazilian white knee tarantula

Photo provided by Chadwick family inverts on instagram

 

  1. About the Species in the Wild
     • This species is native to warm, humid regions of South America.
     • In the wild, Acanthoscurria geniculata lives among leaf litter and often creates burrows in the ground for shelter and to escape the heat.
     • It is a large tarantula with robust features, and in its natural setting, it relies on its size and defensive behaviours to protect itself.
     • When threatened, it may become defensive and can flick irritating urticating hairs.

  2. Enclosure Setup
     • Recommended Enclosure Size for an Adult Specimen: 20 cm high x 20 cm wide x 45 cm long. This size provides sufficient space for the tarantula to move around and create burrows.
     • Substrate: Use a loose material, such as coconut fibre or peat moss. A substrate depth of 10 to 15 cm is advised to support natural digging behaviours.
     • Decorations: Use items like cork bark or flat pieces of wood to create hiding spots. Do not use rocks as decoration because these can cause injury.
     • Heating: Do not use a heat lamp. Instead, attach a heat mat to the side of the enclosure and ensure it is connected to a thermostat. This will help maintain a steady temperature while avoiding overheating.

  3. Temperature and Humidity
     • Temperature: Maintain a temperature range of 24°C to 28°C.
     • Humidity: Keep the humidity level between 70% and 80% to closely mimic its natural environment.

  4. Feeding Guidelines and Cautions
     • Diet: Feed small insects such as crickets or roaches.
     • Feeding Frequency: Offer food approximately once a week or every 7 to 10 days.
     • Overfeeding Caution: Be careful not to overfeed. Do not feed your tarantula if its abdomen is larger than 1.5 times the size of its carapace. This precaution helps prevent obesity and other health issues.
     • Always remove any uneaten prey from the enclosure to maintain cleanliness.

  5. Handling and Safety
     • Do Not Handle: This tarantula is not a pet to be handled. Its large size, defensive nature, and ability to flick urticating hairs mean that handling may cause stress or injury.
     • Observe from a safe distance and ensure the enclosure is placed where it will not be disturbed by people or pets.

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By following these guidelines, you can provide a safe and comfortable home that closely mimics the natural habitat of Acanthoscurria geniculata. Should any changes in behaviour or health occur, consult with experienced tarantula keepers or reliable sources for further advice. Enjoy caring for your tarantula while respecting its natural behaviours and needs!

 

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