Curly Hair Tarantula (Tliltocatl Albopilosus)

Difficulty: Beginner

Scientific Name: Tliltocatl albopilosus (formerly Brachypelma albopilosum)

Adult Size: 3” (8cm) body length, Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): 6.5” (17cm)

Type: New World, Terrestrial

Growth Rate: Slow

Temperament: Docile

Urticating Hairs: Type I  & III

Lifespan: Females 25 years / Males 5 years

Origin: Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica

Recommended Climate: Room temperature, no special requirements

Recommended Humidity: 65-85%

Species Overview:

The Curly Hair Tarantula, scientifically known as Tliltocatl albopilosus, is a beloved species in the tarantula hobby. Renowned for its long, wiry, curly hairs, this New World terrestrial tarantula is native to Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. Recognized for its hardiness, ease of care, and calm demeanor, the Curly Hair is an excellent choice for enthusiasts, especially those new to the hobby.

Enclosure:

• Size: For spiderlings, use small acrylic amac boxes, transition to a 4x4x5 inch enclosure for juveniles, and finally, a 12x12x12 or 18x18x18 enclosure for adults.
• Substrate: Opt for our Terra Aranea with added sphagnum moss, and leaf litter, and provide small pieces of cork bark for hides. Maintain lower substrate levels damp while keeping the top layers dry. Light mistings every other day is a good way to achieve this. 

Decor:

Enrich the enclosure with the following live plants:

• Tiny Oak Creeping Fig Plant
• Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
• Pothos 'N Joy' Clippings (Epipremnum aureum)
• Club Moss

Hides: Offer various cork bark hides for security.

Lighting:

Light up the habitat with a "Glow and Grow" LED grow light:

• LED Grow Light: Opt for a full-spectrum light with a 6500K color temperature for balanced blue and red wavelengths, promoting plant growth and natural behaviors.
• Timer: Maintain a consistent day-night cycle with an adjustable timer, providing 12-14 hours of light daily to simulate natural light conditions.

Temperature and Humidity:

• Temperature: Maintain room temperature, with no special temperature requirements mentioned.
• Humidity: Keep lower levels of substrate damp, providing the tarantula with options for humidity while keeping the top layers dry.

Feeding:

• Spiderlings: Feed flightless fruit flies, small beetles, or pre-killed crickets or roaches.
• Juveniles: Offer 3-4 small-medium crickets every 1-2 weeks.
• Adults: Provide 5-6 large crickets every 2-3 weeks.

Adult Size and Lifespan:

• Adult Size: 3” body length, Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): 6.5”
• Lifespan: Females 25 years / Males 5 years

What makes this tarantula enchanting?

The Curly Hair Tarantula is visually captivating, adorned with long, curly hairs that create a fluffy appearance. Known for its calm and docile nature, this species moves at a leisurely pace, making it an ideal tarantula for display. Its popularity stems from its easy care requirements, making it suitable for both novice and experienced keepers.

Shopping List:

• Exo Terra 12x12x12 Terrarium 
• LED Glow & Grow Light (Full Spectrum, 6500K) 
• Timer for Lighting
• Tiny Oak Creeping Fig Plant
• Polka Dot Plant (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
• Pothos 'N Joy' Clippings (Epipremnum aureum)
• Club Moss
• Live Prey (Crickets, Roaches, Mealworms)
• Terra Aranea Substrate Kit (Sphagnum Moss, Leaf Litter, Bioshot)
• Clean Up Crew (Springtails)

Remember, regular observation is key to understanding your Curly Hair Tarantula's specific needs and behaviors. Enjoy the process of creating a thriving, bioactive home for your Tliltocatl albopilosus!

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