🕷️ Xenesthis sp. "Blue" – Giant Blue Bloom
Also known as the Colombian Mountain Tarantula
There’s just nothing like it. Xenesthis sp. "Blue" is pure drama—massive size, dark body, and this unreal metallic blue bloom that flashes across the legs under light. Photos don’t do it justice. If you're looking for something that feels almost mythical in person, this is the one. It’s bold, out in the open, and makes an incredible display tarantula.
🕸️ Care Details:
- Temperature: Ideal range is 68°F to 75°F. These come from cooler, high-altitude tropical regions, so don’t overheat them. Warm is okay, but not hot.
- Humidity: Aim for 50%. I keep the bottom layer moist and let the top dry out slightly. Good airflow is key.
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Housing (Terrestrial species):
- Babies: A 1oz to 4oz deli cup with needle-sized ventilation works best. If you’d like a free deli cup, just let me know during checkout—if you don’t ask, it won’t be included.
- Juveniles: Enclosure should be 2 to 3 times their size with moist substrate and a hide.
- Adults: These grow large—set them up with at least a 12"x8" enclosure. More space is even better. I recommend deep coco fiber, cork bark, moss, and good airflow.
🪳 Feeding:
I rotate between crickets and roaches—mostly Dubia, red runners, and hissers for adults. For slings, I use pinhead crickets or small roaches.
If prey is too big, crush the head and leave it in—your sling will know what to do.
For variety, a pinky mouse or a small reptile feeder can be offered once in a while—but don’t overdo it. Too much calcium can cause problems for their digestion and molting.
🔍 In-Depth Facts:
- Latin name: Xenesthis sp. "Blue"
- Common names: Giant Blue Bloom, Colombian Mountain Tarantula
- Locale: Colombia – specifically the mountainous Andean regions where humidity stays high and temperatures are cooler
- Category: Terrestrial—likes to stay on the surface but may push substrate around; not a deep burrower. May web lightly near its hide.
- Size: Females up to 8.5 inches; males slightly smaller
- Urticating hairs: Yes—used only if disturbed. Rarely flicks without a reason.
- Growth rate: Moderate. Grows faster with higher feeding and warmth, but prefers a cooler, slower approach.
- Life span: Females live 20+ years. Males usually 5 years.
- Recommended levels: Perfect for experienced keepers or anyone who appreciates the size and color of Xenesthis.
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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 tarantulasgenerally 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.