The Grammostola rosea, often known as the "Chilean Rosehair Tarantula," is a true gem among tarantula enthusiasts, particularly the stunning red phase. Known for its calm demeanor, this terrestrial beauty captivates with its velvety reddish-pink hue that stands out in any collection. This species is an excellent choice for beginners due to its hardy nature and ease of care, making it a delightful addition to any keeper's lineup.
Care Details:
- Temperature: Ideal range for most tarantulas is 75 to 85°F (24 to 29°C). Tarantulas in warmer environments eat more, grow faster, and molt quicker. This care flexibility makes tarantulas easy to maintain.
- Humidity: Maintain humidity at around 50-60%. Water dishes are not necessary, but if used, they pose no harm. I personally do not use them.
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Housing:
- Terrestrial species: A 1 oz to 4 oz deli container with needle-made ventilation is perfect for babies. Free containers are available at checkout, but you must ask during checkout to receive one. For juveniles, an enclosure 2 to 3 times their size is recommended. Adult tarantulas thrive in larger enclosures with a bit more space to explore.
Diet:
I personally give them a variety of crickets and cockroaches, including Dubia, Red-runner, Lobster, and Madagascar hissing roaches. For the baby tarantulas, baby crickets and baby roaches are ideal. If you have access to only one type of prey, that is also perfectly fine.
If you cannot find a small enough cricket or cockroach, just crush its head and leave it in the enclosure; your tarantula should handle the rest. Remember to remove any uneaten food to prevent any mold growth. And for an occasional treat, a pinky or hopper mouse adds a nice variety to their diet. Make sure to not overfeed rodents and feeder lizards to your tarantulas, these should be done every once in a while as a treat. Too much calcium is not good for the tarantula as it can cause constipation and the tarantula might have a hard time pooping.
In-depth Facts:
- Latin name: Grammostola rosea
- Common name: Chilean Rose Tarantula (Red Phase)
- Locale: Chile, Bolivia, Argentina
- Category: Terrestrial. Does not web excessively, and prefers a more open environment.
- Size: Females can grow up to 7 inches, while males are slightly smaller, maxing out around 4-5 inches.
- Urticating hairs: Yes, but hardly ever used.
- Growth rate: Slow grower, taking several years to reach full maturity.
- Life span: Females can live up to 35 years, while males typically have a shorter lifespan of about 5-7 years.
- Recommended levels: Suitable for everyone, especially beginners, due to their docile nature and low maintenance.
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Safety Disclaimer:
Experiencing a tarantula bite is an extremely rare occurrence, and it's important to note that there have been no recorded fatalities due to a tarantula bite. The venom potency varies across species, with Old World tarantulas generally having stronger venom than their New World counterparts. Within the Old World category, the Poecilotheria genus is known for having particularly potent venom.
It's crucial to approach tarantulas with respect and understanding. If you happen to get bitten, which is unlikely, the key is to stay calm. In most cases, the discomfort is superficial and subsides within a few minutes to a few hours. However, bites from species with more potent venom may result in symptoms lasting up to a week. Remember, larger tarantulas tend to have more venom than smaller ones.
Please be aware that I cannot assume responsibility for bites. Tarantula handling should be done at your own risk. In my 11 years of experience with these creatures, I have only been bitten once, by a species with highly potent venom. While the experience was painful, the symptoms had completely disappeared after a week.
Handle tarantulas responsibly, and always prioritize your safety and the well-being of the tarantula.