A small, attractive, docile and easy to rear species of Cyriocosmus, found in Colombia.
| Environment | Tropical |
|---|---|
| Lifestyle | Fossorial |
| Adult Size | Up to 5cm |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Temperament | Docile |
| Suitability | Novice keeper |
A small species of tarantula with a maximum legspan of 5cm. What they lack in size they make up for in colour. The carapace base is orange to tan with a black triangle similar to that of Brachypelma emilia. Noticably, they also have an irregular black patterning running down the flanks of the carapace near to the abdomen join. The abdomen itself is black overall and has the same orange to tan tiger striping; side to side. This is joined by another irregular circular type pattern in the centre. The legs are dark in colour, but after the patella (knee joint) a white to cream striping forms in the centre of the leg.
This species originates from Colombia (northern tip of South America) which lies between the Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn and close to the Equator line. Exact location data isn't available for this species or is very difficult to find. The landscape of Colombia consists of Amazon rainforest, tropical grasslands, Andes mountains, coastlines and coffee plantations.
House this species in a terrestrial style plastic tank or glass enclosure with enough height to allow them to burrow. Keep spiderlings in plastic vials or deli containers until they are of a size that prevents them from escaping.
Heat the enclosure by space heating the area in which the tank is situated (e.g. oil filled radiator) or use a heat mat placed against the side of the enclosure which is connected to a thermostat. Aim to maintain temperatures between 24-26ºC daytime, with a night-time drop to 20ºC. Maintain humidty at 75-80% by lightly misting the enclosure with a hand sprayer, but avoid the substrate becoming saturated. The use of a water bowl is optional, but don't use one too large.
For substrate provide a minimum layer of 7-10cm of loose coir, peat or one of the specialist invert blends. This will encourage natural burrowing behaviour.
Create a simple hide by using cork bark sunken into the substrate, this encourages burrowing behaviour and helps them feel secure. Don't be alarmed if your spider ignores the retreat and sits out in the open.
Larger specimens won't usually eat more than a couple of suitable sized prey items per week. Offer a variety of suitably sized live food including crickets, mealworms, cockroaches and locusts.
