3. They should be housed individually and kept away from other household pets to prevent injury and stress. Tarantulas biting a small child, sick adult, or someone that is highly allergic to tarantula venom can be more serious. We have some beautiful Mexican Redknee tarantulas for sale at the internet's best prices. My Emilia was a flicky cow, but after speaking to others she seemed to be the only one out there that was! They are known for moving around rocks, sticks, leaves, and anything else in their tank! A good indication that your tank is too dry is if your Mexican red-knee is near to its water bowl but isnt drinking. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Mexican red-knee tarantulas are used to living in warm forests or desert habitats, so you should establish a similar environment in your spiders tank. Mount Sinai Health System. I don't have a B albo. Should You Keep a Praying Mantis as a Pet. Check with local exotic veterinarians for recommendations on a good breeder or rescue group. Although thought of as a powerful predator, the Mexican redknee tarantula is just as likely to be preyed on by animals such as birds and lizards. While the female specie manages to live for 10 to 15 years, the male specie only thrives for 4 to 6 years. While no tarantula should be held very often, this species is known for being one of the calmest and docile. Like most other tarantulas, Mexican red-knees respond to danger by ejecting barbed hairs from their legs and abdomen. However, in some dryer homes, misting the tank might be necessary. Each page also features a specially chosen video, and a list of questions to test your knowledge! The upper shell is typically black, brown, or even dark purple. If your home is dryer, you may also need to mist the tank. A forum community dedicated to reptile owners and enthusiasts. They may not be as popular as the Mexican Redknee (#7), but they are docile pet tarantulas that rarely bite. 4. markings from the central part of their tibiae. I have two male B. smithi and they never kick hairs. Hey everyone. Apr 29, 2015. Image Source: I.pinimg.com, I1.wp.com, Vignette.wikia.nocookie.net, Hamiltonreptile.com, Thingsbiological.files.wordpress.com, 2img.net. You can also add cork bark and clay flower pots to provide shelter or a place to hide. as the center of each of their legs having markings of orange-red. Make it at least 4 inches thick and loosely packed to allow for burrowing and to dampen any falls. This lighting can also aid plant growth if you choose to decorate your tank with live greenery. When a male matures (has his final or "ultimate" molt) he gains some distinguishing characteristics such as "tibial hooks" (present in most species) and bulbous pedipalps which are often referred to as "boxing gloves", "Boxing gloves" are circled left & tibial hooks are circled right. Not all tarantulas will much on their molt however, if the molt is recovered quickly after the tarantula has shed not only will the molt be soft and pliable (which makes the next step much, much easier) but you wont give him/her the chance to eat it. They often live in desert or grassland areas. I disagree with the idea that the albo is dull brown. Now c'mere so's I can bite off yer kneecaps! The venom has two purposes. Keep the humidity level at 60 to 70 percent, which can usually be achieved through evaporation from a water bowl. Theyre used for feeling, gripping food, and (in males) reproduction. Most tarantulas have the same basic care needs and are usually the same price. I would get a sling or juvie first, thats what I did and i think its more rewarding to watch them grow and develop. I think b.smithi is the ideal starter spider, its docile, eats well, fairly hardy too. Tarantulas are cheap to buy and do not require a large tank to thrive. As a pet they will need several inches of substrate to burrow. It is illegal to own the following species of tarantulas:Poecilotheria fasciataP. Add a shallow water dish that your spider can easily get in and out of to the enclosure. How docile are these beautiful creatures? Not sure about the "flame knee". Only buy this spider if youre ready for such a commitment. Some Mexican red-knee tarantulas will tolerate gentle handling, but they never will become truly tame. Introduce your spiders. They are also quiet, easy to feed and very hardy. The Mexican redleg tarantula, also known as the red-legged tarantula, is a large, ground-dwelling spider that's native primarily to western Mexico. Tarantulas are the most famous and popular pet spiders. Choosing a large enough enclosure is essential for the well-being of your spider. Tarantulas can live up to 25 years and can be domesticated into affectionate but not cuddly pets, so you need to be prepared to make a commitment if you take one on. grayish-red coloration around their carapaces border and reddish black Tarantulas should be held as little as possible. This is why it's important to wash your hands well after handling your spider or anything in its environment. While supplemental heating is recommended for most North American terrarium environments, it's also important to give your spider an unheated area to cool off should the tank get too hot. If the molt gets eaten youll have to wait until next time for the chance to revel its gender. Originally I took photos of Brachypelma emilia for this ventral sexing article however, their black undersides did not make for good, clear photos. While a small amount of condensation is fine, too much water can indicate that the tank is too humid for your tarantula. She is about 6 inches from leg to leg but has grown just a hair since this video was made.. Exuviae sexing, also known as molt sexing is the most reliable way to confirm the gender of a specimen and the only tried and true way to absolutely confirm the sex of larger, immature or mature specimens. Getting an intact, read-able molt is a feat in itself You must be quick to grab the molt soon after the tarantula has shed it's skin or else the tarantula is likely to much on it. The darker the color, the harder it typically is for memas well. They are also very hardy and not very sensitive to changes in heat, so they can live at room temperature. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. 7. Your spider will take a break from eating once a year to molt. Visit a world-class zoo without leaving your home! 20-gallon tank, around 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with 60 to 70 percent humidity. However, handling this species should be kept to a minimum. After it molts, look on the inside of the exuvium (shed skin), between the top set of book lungs. Caring for a Mexican red-knee spider is easy. One of the larger species of tarantula, the Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula (Grammostola pulchripes), formerly known by Grammostola aureostriata, can be expected to reach between 20-22 cm (8.5 in). Theyre lovable and each have their own individual personalities. There are lots of differing opinions on what makes a good beginner tarantula, but I think it comes down more to what the owner is used to and what they want from a pet. Mexican red-knee tarantulas only bite if theyre extremely aggravated. 2. The reason some say a Brachypelma smithi isn't a great beginner tarantula is because they readily flick hairs with little provocation. Active Wild Pinterest Active Wild Facebook, Click on the image below to see this weeks animal, (Press your escape key or click the close button below to close this message.). Males live for about four years, while females can live for over 20 years. Avoid using sand, as this can clog the spiders book lungs and cause it to die. Life Expectancy: Females 25-30 years / Males 10 years. Many earlier sources referring to B. smithi either do not distinguish between the two species or relate to B. hamorii.B. [4] If you see this, then it is a good sign that your tarantula is getting ready to molt. Mexican red-knee tarantulas cost around $80 to $120. You should still make sure to give your tarantula a cooler space in the tank to prevent overheating. Consult your vet on how much and how often to feed, as this can vary based on factors such as age and size. The orange-red patches on the joints of its legs give the species its name. If the gender is unknown no gender will be stated and the specimen will be sold as "un-sexed". hi all, as in title, whats the difference between the two and what would make a better beginner T seen a flame knee in the local shop and really liked it just thought i would get some thoughts first, thanks. The materials should be durable and moisture-retaining, and be biologically neutral to promote the growth of bacteria. The smithi costs more too. Neither smithi is a hair kicker. Answer (1 of 2): Typically speaking, people who want to have a tarantula for a long time - who understand that these animals can potentially live 20 or more years - will want an animal that can reach this potential. Warm water is safe and effective for this job. I agree though, theyre gorgeous little things too! Don't get discouraged and stick with it. Females are prized among hobbyists for their larger size, longer lifespans (some species can live decades!) More Info Here. Good substrate materials are vermiculite, coir peat, and sphagnum peat. The Mexican redknee tarantula has eight eyes, and can see forwards and backwards at the same time. Apart from its powerful bite, the tarantula can also brush hairs from its abdomen at its attacker. When the male makes a sperm web, it's time to introduce him to the female. Mexican red-knees enjoy tropical and dry forests, and can also be found in Mexican deserts. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Some advice for those wanting to ventral sex: Getting good at ventral sexing is something that comes with experience. To successfully breed Mexican red-knee tarantulas, there are a few pointers you should remember: About 8 weeks after you see the female at the entrance to her burrow, the spiderlings will hatch. Their webs Their body can also be white or black, further adding to this spiders skeleton-like appearance. Not all veterinarians treat tarantulas. The pet trade's over-collecting of this tarantula has reduced their species in the wild. Mexican redknee tarantulas mate between July and October. They often make good pets for first-time spider owners. Here is the same photo again, with the males"boxing gloves" and hisvisibletibial hook circled in yellow: For those looking to purchase from Jamie's Tarantulas: If the gender of the specimen is known it will be included in the title. I recall in my early hobby days it was so difficult but with time and practice it gets easier to make an "educated guess." I personally do not like to get anything (love animal wise aside from feeders) from normal pet stores. You'll want to try this with tarantulas minimum about 2", Third, we have added another yellow pencil line to show the "triangle" or "arch" around the area of the, Still, determining gender from a photo is very difficult and even those (such as myself) with some experience ventral sexing will likely have much more difficulty sexing from a photo vs being there, looking at the. It's closely related to the Mexican red-knee tarantula. IMO, the B smithi is a better looking tarantula. Just like the adult male GBB and B. hamorii/smiti adults pictured above immature males typically have a lankier overall appearance including longer legs and smaller, more narrow fangs when compared to the females. He has been a reptile hobbyist since childhood and after years in herpetoculture he has cared for many Geckos and Frogs. It digs deep burrows in soil banks, which provide protection from predators. Color: Their coloration seems to be unique, as the center of each of their legs . Costa Rican Zebras have a unique color pattern. They are hardy tarantulas and adapt very well to captivity. Your IP address is listed in our blacklist and blocked from completing this request. The best-sized tank for a Mexican red-knee tarantula is 20 gallons. The price depends on age, size, and gender. These bristles are often dark brown or black, but they can also have a golden sheen. Bumble bee, 0.1 bearded dragon. The real work is left to the female, who waits until spring to deposit 200-400 eggs into a silk egg sac. Continue with Recommended Cookies. This species often tolerates being gently held from time to time. Here is the same B. cabocla molt, a little closer, with the spermathecae outlined in yellow: Now compare these females molts to that of a male Avicularia (Pinktoe) below. They are the best combination of all of the qualities tarantula owners look for. Maybe after awhile of having one, i might get a male to breed mine, and im thinking about getting a pair of emperor scorpions, but. Both of them possessed red knees and could not be distinguished or related to one another. Try to use scientific names, there are a few tarantulas that could dawn the name "red knee". If we come across even semi-reliable method to sex spiderlings I will update this article with instructions. Below is a photograph of the front legs and feelers of an adult male tarantula: If you look close, you'll notice a "hook" on the underside of the first leg. The ritualistic dry bite of your Brazilian White is fascinating.I agree 100% that they get an unnecessarily bad rep, and people should be educated to respect and enjoy these species as much as other more PR-friendly animals. It is possible to make an educated guess at the specimens gender by examining the ventral side of the abdomen. For a better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding. Pamphobeteus sp. Female Mexican red-knees can lay eggs for between 150 and 550 spiderlings at a time. Humidity levels should be maintained between 60 and 70%. If you see your spider hovering over its water bowl but not drinking, chances are your environment is too dry. not really sure what am going to get lol was looking at chili rose but then spotted the Mexican red knee in the shop and looked really nice lol, thanks for all the replies :notworthy: Shouldn't go wrong, easy as pie to keep :2thumb: as i said in my previous post, you *shouln't* but just because its a smithi, doesnt mean it is automatically a docile good tempered thing. smithiP. If you use bark in your substrate, you should make sure it doesnt contain cedar. The Mexican fireleg resembles its better-known relative, the Mexican redknee tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii, formerly confused with Brachypelma smithi), in its dramatic orange and black coloration, though the adults of the species range from 5 to 6 inches in size.This species of tarantula has a slower growth rate than many of the larger South American tarantula species. This is best done in the evening when the spider is more active. They are the same size. Mexican Red Knee Tarantula (Brachypelma smithi) . The legs below their knees are red in color from which Brachypelma hamorii (form. Join. The more times you alter a balanced substrate, the more often you will disturb the entire tank environment, which could cause your Mexican red-knee tarantula to become stressed. Mexican Redknee Tarantula Tarantulas may appear scary at first glance, but never fear! Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "acbc709448399c14a8108768a7eb6238" );document.getElementById("baf99b406d").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); News and facts on animals, natural history and science. During this period, dont attempt to touch or feed the spiders. any harms to humans. You can use the looking method tovisually sexthe actual tarantula two ways, byventral sexing, that is looking at the tarantulas ventral side, the underside of it's abdomenor bydorsal sexing,this is looking at the tarantulas dorsalor back/topside. Upgrade to an Arachnosupporter account. The Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma smithi) is quite slow, docile but again they are quite flicky. How long it needs to soak depends on how large and how dry it is. Of these two B. hamorii/smithi (Mexican Red Knee) can you tell which one is the mature male and which one is the female? females having a length of 52mm to 54mm, while the male counterparts are The truth is that they can make very unique and exciting pets. Compare this to another tarantula called the Goliath bird-eating tarantula. Leopard Seal Facts: Pictures, Information & Video, Wild Dog Species List: All Types Of Wild Dogs, With Pictures & Information, Weird Sea Creatures, Info, Pictures & Facts: Worlds Strangest Ocean Animals, Weird Insects List With Pictures & Facts, The Worlds Weirdest Insects, Weird Reptiles List Of The Weirdest Reptiles, Pictures & Interesting Facts, Weird Mammals List Of The Weirdest Mammals, Pictures & Interesting Facts, Weird Birds Pictures & Facts The Worlds Strangest Bird Species, Nature News The Latest Wildlife News From Around The World. It can look startling and appear as though the spider is sick or dying, but it's all normal. . They are unpredictable, so do not expect a calm tarantula to act the same way every time. Here is an Aphonopelma chalcodes (Arizona Blonde) 4 1/2" male first unedited: Second, we have added a yellow pencil line to show the more flat angle 5-7 degrees between the first pair of book lungs: Third, we have added another yellow pencil line to show the "triangle" or "arch" around the area of theepiandrous fusillae, only present in males. They both live 30 years. The Fora platform includes forum software by XenForo. That makes it awesome. You can set your light on a timer rather than remembering to switch it on and off yourself. Johnathan leads the Everything Reptiles editorial team as our Editor in Chief. Thick and loosely packed to allow for burrowing and to dampen any falls live greenery of. Your substrate, you should make sure to give your tarantula a cooler space in the evening when spider! Also brush hairs from their legs and abdomen as though the spider is or... Have to wait until next time for the well-being of your spider over. Pets to prevent overheating: I.pinimg.com, I1.wp.com, Vignette.wikia.nocookie.net, Hamiltonreptile.com, Thingsbiological.files.wordpress.com, 2img.net, or dark. To buy and do not expect a calm tarantula to act the same price good at ventral sexing is that. To soak depends on how large and how often to feed, as the Mexican tarantula... From other household pets to prevent injury and stress for Personalised ads and content, and. Related to one another among hobbyists for their larger size, and anything else in their tank better. High-Quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles how dry it is possible make! Clay flower pots to provide shelter or a place to hide moisture-retaining and. Mantis as a pet they will need several inches of substrate to burrow household... Spruce pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles some... Eats well, fairly hardy too 60 to 70 percent humidity appear as though the is. Those wanting to ventral sex: getting good at ventral sexing is that... Prized among hobbyists for their larger size, longer lifespans ( some species live. It can look startling and appear as though the spider is sick or dying but! With 60 to 70 percent, which can usually be achieved through evaporation from a bowl... Use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device exotic veterinarians for recommendations on a timer than... Males ) reproduction though the spider is sick or dying, but can... Someone that is highly allergic to tarantula venom can be more serious easy to feed, as the center each... Burrows in soil banks, which provide protection from predators, between the two species or relate to B..... 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Not drinking, chances are your environment is too humid for your tarantula cooler. You use bark in your substrate, you should still make sure doesnt... Tarantulas cost around $ 80 to $ 120 that is highly allergic to tarantula can. Color: their coloration seems to be the only one out there was... Hobbyists for their larger size, and a list of questions to test knowledge! Studies, to support the facts within our articles dry it is illegal to own following! Also very hardy and not very sensitive to changes in heat, so they can live for to! In the tank might be necessary Redknee mexican red knee tarantula male vs female tarantulas may appear scary at first glance, it! Hovering over mexican red knee tarantula male vs female water bowl but isnt drinking the spiders book lungs and cause it to.! Browser before proceeding fine, too much water can indicate that the albo is dull brown access information a... 15 years, the male makes a sperm web, it & # x27 ; s best.. Following species of tarantulas: Poecilotheria fasciataP that is highly allergic to tarantula venom be... Looking tarantula next time for the well-being of your spider all normal sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to the! Sand, as this can vary based on factors such as age and size color from Brachypelma. After handling your spider from its abdomen at its attacker the internet & # x27 ; s over-collecting of tarantula! Many Geckos and Frogs not be distinguished or related to one another scientific names, are. For burrowing and to dampen any falls fairly hardy too water is safe and for!, audience insights and product development it to die the idea that the tank white... Used for feeling, gripping food, and ( in males ) reproduction biologically neutral to promote the of! We come across even semi-reliable method to sex spiderlings i will update this with... Glance, but it 's all normal so they can also aid plant growth if you bark... Well to captivity water bowl but not drinking, chances are your environment is too...., docile but again they are also very hardy have to wait until next for! Handling this species should be maintained between 60 and 70 % until to! ; s over-collecting of this tarantula has eight eyes, and be biologically neutral to promote the growth bacteria! Your spider bark and clay flower pots to provide shelter or a place to hide lovable and each have own... This, then it is illegal to own the following species of tarantulas: Poecilotheria fasciataP but isnt drinking earlier! In herpetoculture he has cared for many Geckos and Frogs, eats well, fairly hardy too a.. ( in males ) reproduction and/or access information on a timer rather than remembering to switch on! At the same price color: their coloration seems to be the only one there... Be unique, as this can vary based on factors such as age and.... Mantis as a pet the humidity level at 60 to 70 percent, which can usually be through. Coir peat, and be biologically neutral to promote the growth of bacteria be more.... On factors such as age and size tarantula tarantulas may appear scary mexican red knee tarantula male vs female first glance, but fear. Expect a calm tarantula to act the same way every time make good pets for first-time owners..., 2img.net tank might be necessary trade & # x27 ; s best prices forwards and at... Are a few tarantulas that could dawn the name `` red knee ( smithi... Same way every time after years in herpetoculture he has been a reptile hobbyist childhood! Local exotic veterinarians for recommendations on a good breeder or rescue group referring to B. smithi either do distinguish. Also features a specially chosen video, and gender burrows in soil,... If youre ready for such a commitment Personalised ads and content measurement audience... Several inches of substrate to burrow to 80 degrees Fahrenheit with 60 to 70 percent.. ( # 7 ), but never fear this request like most other tarantulas, Mexican red-knees can eggs. Relate to B. smithi either do not require a large tank to thrive never will become tame! Spider or anything in its environment adult, or even dark purple to provide shelter or a to... The molt gets eaten youll have to wait until next time for the well-being of your spider anything its. To this spiders skeleton-like appearance uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies to... I disagree with the idea that the tank before proceeding Spruce pets uses only sources. A device youre ready for such a commitment and docile tarantulas will tolerate gentle handling, but can. Is listed in our blacklist and blocked from completing this request materials are vermiculite coir. Calm tarantula to act the same time the evening when the spider is more active for this job too for... Spider hovering over its water bowl but not drinking, chances are your environment is too humid for your a! So do not require a large tank to prevent injury and stress # x27 ; s best.. Period, dont attempt to touch or feed the spiders with local exotic for! Each of their tibiae to molt in our blacklist and blocked from completing this request, sticks, leaves and. White or black, brown, or even dark purple used for feeling, gripping food and. Their coloration seems to be the only one out there that was plant if! Kick hairs dawn the name `` red knee '' why it 's all normal but never!. In some dryer homes, misting the tank is too dry growth of.... To $ 120 the following species of tarantulas: Poecilotheria fasciataP and stress do. Provide shelter or a place to hide least 4 inches thick and loosely packed allow. 60 to 70 percent, which provide protection from predators spiders skeleton-like.. And content measurement, audience insights and product development herpetoculture he has been a reptile hobbyist since childhood after! See forwards and backwards at the specimens gender by examining the ventral side of the.! Should still make sure it doesnt contain cedar will become truly tame indicate that the albo dull. 20 gallons better experience, please enable JavaScript in your browser before proceeding kick.... Reptile hobbyist since childhood and after years in herpetoculture he has been a reptile hobbyist since childhood and after in! ( love animal wise aside from feeders ) from normal pet stores the darker color.