The Mexican Red Knee Tarantula, scientifically known as Brachypelma hamorii (previously Brachypelma smithi), stands as a true icon in the world of tarantula keeping. If you were to picture a tarantula, chances are the striking image of a Mexican Red Knee would come to mind. This species has charmed its way into popular culture, famously appearing in films like “Indiana Jones” and “Kingdom of the Spiders,” and even making a cameo in “Star Trek: The Next Generation” as Lieutenant Commander Data’s pet. Native to the western coast of Mexico, south of Guadalajara, these terrestrial tarantulas thrive in the dry savannas and scrublands of the region. Their captivating beauty, coupled with their docile nature and ease of care, has cemented their place as one of the most beloved tarantulas for enthusiasts of all levels.
Origins and Habitat of the Mexican Red Knee
Endemic to Mexico, the Mexican Red Knee tarantula faced significant threats in the past. The species was listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) in 1985 due to declining populations in their natural habitat. This decline was largely attributed to over-collection for the burgeoning pet trade, particularly in China, and unfortunately, local persecution due to misconceptions about them being pests or bad omens. The CITES listing was crucial, effectively protecting the Brachypelma hamorii from further unregulated export and helping to conserve wild populations. Thankfully, by this time, the Mexican Red Knee was already successfully established within tarantula hobbyist communities and being bred in captivity, ensuring its continued availability.
Why the Mexican Red Knee is a Top Choice for Tarantula Keepers
The enduring popularity of the Mexican Red Knee tarantula is no mystery. Several key characteristics make them an excellent choice, especially for those new to tarantula keeping:
- Striking Appearance: Their vibrant orange “knees” that dramatically contrast against their deep black body create a visually stunning spider. This bold coloration is a major part of their appeal.
- Docile Temperament: Known for their generally calm and docile nature, Mexican Red Knees are less likely to be defensive compared to some other species. This makes them easier and safer to handle and observe.
- Easy Care and Husbandry: Originating from Mexico’s drier regions, they are remarkably adaptable and undemanding in captivity. Their care requirements are straightforward, making them ideal for beginners.
Setting Up the Perfect Habitat for Your Mexican Red Knee Tarantula
Creating the right environment is crucial for the health and well-being of your Mexican Red Knee. Here’s a guide to setting up their enclosure:
- Enclosure Size: For spiderlings, small acrylic boxes or deli cups work well. Juveniles thrive in AMAC boxes or similar juvenile enclosures. Adults will need a 2.5 to 5-gallon enclosure. While some keepers opt for larger 10-gallon tanks, it’s generally unnecessary as long as their basic needs are met within a smaller, secure space.
- Substrate: Coco fiber, peat moss, or creature soil are excellent choices. For spiderlings, keep the substrate slightly damp. For juveniles and adults, maintain a drier substrate to mimic their natural arid environment. Ensure the substrate depth is at least half the enclosure height, if not more, to minimize injury from potential falls.
- Hides and Decor: Provide a hide like a cork bark piece or half-log to offer a sense of security. A water dish is essential, and you can add plastic plants for visual enrichment.
- Humidity and Temperature: Maintain a temperature around 76°F (24°C). While spiderlings benefit from slightly higher humidity (maintained by dampening substrate), adults thrive in drier conditions. For adults, simply overflow the water dish once a month to provide a temporary humidity spike, then allow the corner to dry out completely.
Feeding Your Mexican Red Knee: A Simple Routine
Feeding Mexican Red Knees is generally straightforward:
- Prey for Spiderlings: Offer appropriately sized prey like pinhead crickets or roaches, no larger than 2/3 the size of the spiderling, once or twice a week. Pre-killed prey is readily accepted by spiderlings. Remove any uneaten food within 24 hours.
- Prey for Juveniles: Feed 1-2 small to medium crickets weekly, adjusting frequency based on the size of the abdomen. A plump abdomen indicates they are well-fed.
- Prey for Adults: Adults can be fed 6-8 large crickets every other week, again adjusting based on abdomen size.
- Feeding Refusal: It’s normal for Mexican Red Knees, especially adults, to refuse food for weeks or even months. This is not cause for alarm. Simply remove uneaten prey after 24 hours and offer food again in a couple of weeks. Always wait about 2 weeks after a molt before attempting to feed to allow their exoskeleton to harden.
Temperament and Handling: What to Expect
Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas are known for their docile nature, but it’s important to handle them with care and respect:
- Docile but Defensive: While generally docile, they can kick urticating hairs from their abdomen as a defense mechanism. These hairs can cause itching and irritation, especially for sensitive individuals.
- Bite Potential: Bites are rare and their venom is not considered medically significant to humans, comparable to a bee sting at most. They are far more likely to flee or kick hairs than bite.
- Handling: Handling should be kept to a minimum and always done gently over a soft surface to prevent injury from falls. Observe them primarily in their enclosure to minimize stress for both you and the tarantula.
Taxonomy Update: Brachypelma hamorii vs. smithi
For many years, the tarantulas commonly kept and sold in the hobby as Brachypelma smithi were actually Brachypelma hamorii. Recent taxonomic revisions have clarified that the species we know and love as the “Mexican Red Knee” is correctly classified as Brachypelma hamorii, while the true Brachypelma smithi is a different, less common species in the hobby, previously misidentified as Brachypelma annitha. This name change reflects a more accurate understanding of these beautiful spiders.
Conclusion: Why the Mexican Red Knee Tarantula is a Fantastic Choice
The Mexican Red Knee tarantula remains a hobby favorite for good reason. Their striking beauty, manageable temperament, and straightforward care make them an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced tarantula keepers. If you’re looking for a captivating and relatively low-maintenance invertebrate pet, the Mexican Red Knee (Brachypelma hamorii) is an excellent species to consider.
