Aphonopelma seemanni (Costa Rican zebra tarantula)

By Martin Overton

(Originally published in The Arachnid Arena Newsletter)

This species was first described by Cambridge in 1897.

Described by Ann Webb, in her book 'Wall to Wall Spiders' as "strikingly gorgeous!" it's not surprising that many in the hobby aim to keep at least one of these spiders. It is certainly one on my list of must haves.

The spider originates from Costa-Rica where it lives in deep burrows in the tropical rainforest. The abdomen is usually a brown to black colour with russet hairs, orange spinnerets and underbelly complete this arachnids ensemble. The legs are dark brown/black with distinct longitudinal cream lines down the legs.

This is not normally considered a suitable starter tarantula, due to it's generally skittish nature and it's liberal dose of Houdini genes (this species tends to be a keen escapologist.) Because this is generally skittish species, handling is not recommended.

The requirements in captivity are: As for keeping them as pets, many people keep these in large 12x12x12 (inches) tanks.

Unlike the other terrestrial (ground living) species this species requires high humidity levels (above 75%). Substrate for the cage should be of peat/vermiculite mix, and should be at least 3 (preferably 4) inches deep. These spiders will dig deep burrows if the substrate is suitable. An open water dish is a must; humidity must not fall below 75 percent!

Food: All standard invertebrates

Terrestrial: Rainforest species, deep burrower.

Aggressiveness: Not overly aggressive, can be fast.

Venom Effect: Not yet known, expected to be low toxicity.

Geographic Range: Can be found in most of Costa Rica. Also found in Nicaragua and Guatemala.

Requirements: Temperature: 78 Fahrenheit

Humidity: 80%

Substrate: Peat or peat/vermiculite mix (at least 3 inches deep).

Shelter: Flowerpot or Cork Bark

Water: Open water dish

Life Span: Females (up to 18 years), Males (Mature at between 2 and 3 years old).

You can find a picture of this species HERE!