Brachypelma albopilosum

Introduction

Known as the Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula, this very docile species is part of the [[Brachypelma]] genus and is widely available. Though not the best looking specimen it is an ideal beginner species for anyone interested in learning more about tarantulas. These tarantulas are native to Central America but are most seen in Costa Rica and Honduras. This species was first described scientifically in 1980 by Valerio.

Other names include the Honduras Curly Hair Tarantula, Curlyhair Tarantula, Honduran Curlyhair Tarantula and the Wooly Tarantula.

Description

The Curly Hair Tarantula is an attractive species, colours do vary between individuals though they are usually a brownish-black colouration with gold markings and a covering of fine, curly, pink hairs. They are slow-growing and can have a leg-span of about 15 cm (6 inches).

Habitat/ Enclosure

Adult Curly Hair Tarantulas should be housed in a terrarium of between 5 to 10 gallons. This species is terrestrial so floorspace is more important than height. The habitat should be constructed so that they provide plenty of hiding places. A broken flowerpot may also be used to provide a great built-in burrow.

Substrate

The substrate you use within the enclosure can be either potting soil, peat moss or vermiculite, whichever you use depends on your personal preferences as all have their good and bad points. The substrate should be atleast 10 cm (4inches) deep to provide a suitable layer for your spider to dig an effective burrow. The substrate should be kept damp but not so much so that bacteria and molds begin to grow.

Temperature

This species requires a temperature range of between 24-28°C (75-82.5°F). A temperature gradient is important to allow the tarantula to regulate their body temperature as needed. The easiest way to provide the gradient is by using a heating mat designed for use under reptile tanks. This should be placed under no more than about 1/3 of the tank, so your pet can move from warmer to cooler temperatures if desired. Always verify that appropriate temperatures are being provided by using accurate thermometers in a few locations within the enclosure. A heat lamp with a 60-watt bulb over an area just outside the entrance to the burrow will provide a basking spot for your tarantula.

Humidity

Humidity should be maintained at between 70-85% by providing a large, shallow water bowl and by misting the enclosure regularly. To successfully maintain the desired humidity conditions for your tarantula you are going to need a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device used to measure relative humidity within the enclosure.

Feeding

Spiderlings eat pinhead crickets, and other small insects. Adults eat crickets, other large insects, small lizards, pinkie mice, and an occasional fuzzy mouse every few months.

Water

Providing a large, shallow water dish will ensure your spider has all the water it needs aswell as help to miantain the relative humidity within the habitat.

Handling

As previously explained this is one of the calmest species of tarantula, however, handling is not recommended due to their urticating hairs and sometimes skittish temperament. If you do feel the need to handle your pet then do so by slowly cupping the spider and gently raising it out of the enclosure, then allow it casually explore your hands, avoid making any rapid movements, if you are going to handle a tarantula it is important that you be confident.

Breeding

Spiderlings should be fed pinhead crickets until they grow large enough to handle larger insects and small lizards. Pinkie mice may also be given once they reach a large enough size.

Spiderlings can be kept in small plastic containers, such as film canisters. It is important that these types of containers have air holes or spiderlings may suffocate.