The Mexican Redknee Tarantula, scientifically known as Brachypelma hamorii, is arguably the most recognizable and beloved tarantula in the world of arachnid enthusiasts. Formerly classified as Brachypelma smithi, this terrestrial beauty, endemic to Mexico, has captured the imagination of popular culture and hobbyists alike. When you picture a tarantula, chances are you’re envisioning the striking black and orange patterns of a Mexican Redknee Tarantula. Its fame extends beyond the pet trade, having been featured in iconic films such as Indiana Jones and “Kingdom of the Spiders,” as well as in the Star Trek universe as Lieutenant Commander Data’s pet. Native to the western coast of Mexico, south of Guadalajara, in dry savannas and scrublands, this species is not only visually stunning but also renowned for its docile nature and ease of care, making it a perfect entry point into the fascinating world of tarantula keeping.
Understanding the Mexican Redknee Tarantula
The Brachypelma hamorii, or Mexican Redknee Tarantula, is a New World terrestrial species, meaning it is native to the Americas and primarily dwells on the ground. While they are terrestrial, they are also opportunistic burrowers, often creating or utilizing hides to feel secure. Their popularity, unfortunately, became a threat to their wild populations. In 1985, the species was listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) due to significant declines in the wild. This decline was largely attributed to over-collection for the burgeoning pet trade, particularly in countries like China, and also due to local extermination as they were often perceived as pests or bad omens. CITES protection played a crucial role in curbing unregulated exportation and safeguarding wild populations. Fortunately, by this time, the Mexican Redknee Tarantula was already well-established in captive breeding programs, ensuring its continued availability in the pet hobby. Today, its prevalence is a testament to its captivating appearance, gentle temperament, and straightforward care requirements.
Housing Your Mexican Redknee Tarantula
Creating the right environment is crucial for the health and well-being of your Mexican Redknee Tarantula. Fortunately, they are not demanding and adapt well to captivity.
Spiderlings: Start young tarantulas in small acrylic boxes or deli cups, filling them halfway with substrate. Suitable substrates include coco fiber, peat moss, or creature soil. Maintain slight dampness in the substrate for spiderlings, as they are more vulnerable to dehydration. Provide a small hide, such as a cork bark piece, and ensure sufficient substrate depth to allow for burrowing. A constant temperature around 76°F (24°C) is ideal. Offer water by lightly misting the side of the enclosure or providing a very small water dish if space allows.
Juveniles: As your Mexican Redknee Tarantula grows, move it to a juvenile enclosure, such as an AMAC box or a specialized juvenile tarantula enclosure. Enclosures should be filled at least halfway with substrate to cushion potential falls. The distance from the substrate to the lid should not exceed 1.5 times the tarantula’s leg span to prevent injury from falls. Continue to provide a hide, a water dish, and optional decorations like plastic plants. For juveniles, the substrate should be kept mostly dry. Water can be provided by filling the water dish and occasionally overflowing it slightly, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between overflows to mimic their natural arid environment.
Adults: Adult Mexican Redknee Tarantulas thrive in 2.5 to 5-gallon enclosures. Larger enclosures, like 10-gallon tanks, are also suitable if preferred aesthetically. Regardless of size, ensure the enclosure is filled at least halfway with substrate to minimize fall risks. Coco fiber is an excellent substrate choice for adults, as it retains moisture minimally and suits their preference for drier conditions. Maintain a dry substrate, provide a water dish, and a hide. Overflow the water dish monthly, allowing the corner to dry out before the next overflow, to provide occasional humidity.
Feeding Your Mexican Redknee Tarantula
Feeding Mexican Redknee Tarantulas is generally straightforward. Their appetite and feeding frequency will vary depending on their age and stage of life.
Spiderlings: Feed spiderlings appropriately sized prey, such as pinhead crickets or small roaches, once or twice a week. Prey items should be no larger than two-thirds the size of the spiderling. If suitably sized prey isn’t available, pre-kill larger prey or offer pieces of crickets or mealworms. Spiderlings are scavengers and readily accept pre-killed food. Remove any uneaten prey within 24 hours and wait at least 48 hours after a molt before offering food again.
Juveniles: Feed juveniles one to two small to medium-sized crickets weekly, adjusting frequency based on the size of the abdomen. A smaller abdomen indicates hunger, while a plump abdomen suggests they are well-fed. Avoid overfeeding, as it doesn’t accelerate growth. Wait approximately one week after a juvenile molts before resuming feeding.
Adults: Feed adult Mexican Redknee Tarantulas 6-8 large crickets every other week, adjusting based on abdomen size and recent molting. It’s normal for adults to refuse food for extended periods, sometimes weeks or months. This is not cause for alarm, as they are opportunistic feeders in nature. If your tarantula refuses food, remove the prey within 24 hours and try again in a couple of weeks. Never leave live prey in the enclosure with a molting tarantula, as it can cause stress, injury, or even death during this vulnerable period. Wait about two weeks after an adult tarantula molts before feeding, allowing sufficient time for hardening of the exoskeleton and fangs.
Temperament and Handling
One of the key reasons for the Mexican Redknee Tarantula’s popularity is its docile temperament. They are generally calm and slow-moving, making them relatively easy to handle, although handling is not recommended for the tarantula’s safety and well-being. They are more inclined to flee than bite when threatened. However, they are capable of kicking urticating hairs from their abdomen as a defense mechanism. These hairs can cause itching and irritation, especially to sensitive individuals. While their venom is not considered medically significant to humans, a bite can still be painful. It’s always best to observe and appreciate them within their enclosure.
The Name Game: Brachypelma hamorii vs. Brachypelma smithi
For many years, the Mexican Redknee Tarantula in the hobby was misidentified as Brachypelma smithi. Recent taxonomic revisions, based on detailed morphological analysis, have reclassified the species commonly kept in the hobby as Brachypelma hamorii. The true Brachypelma smithi is now recognized as the species formerly known as Brachypelma annitha. While the name change might cause some initial confusion, the care requirements and captivating beauty of the Mexican Redknee Tarantula remain unchanged. This taxonomic clarification highlights the ongoing refinement of our understanding in the world of arachnology.
Conclusion
The Mexican Redknee Tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii) truly deserves its iconic status in the tarantula hobby. Its striking colors, docile nature, and manageable care requirements make it an exceptional choice for both beginners and experienced keepers alike. By providing a suitable environment and proper care, you can enjoy the fascinating presence of this beautiful Mexican native for many years to come.
