Stripped Knee Tarantula Care
The Stripped Knee Tarantula, also known as the Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula (Aphonopelma seemanni), is a popular choice for beginners due to its generally docile nature (though individual temperaments vary) and relatively straightforward care requirements. They are known for their distinctive white or beige stripes on their legs.
Here’s a care sheet for beginners:
1. Enclosure:
* Size:
* Adults: A 5 to 10-gallon glass terrarium or well-ventilated plastic enclosure is suitable. The length should be roughly three times the tarantula’s leg span, and the width two to three times.
* Juveniles: A smaller enclosure is appropriate.
* Spiderlings: A basic spiderling enclosure with a significant amount of substrate is needed.
* Type: As a terrestrial (and semi-fossorial, meaning they burrow) species, prioritize horizontal space over height. Ensure the enclosure is escape-proof, as they can be good climbers.
* Ventilation: Good airflow is crucial to prevent mold, while still maintaining adequate humidity.
2. Substrate:
* Depth: Provide at least 4-6 inches of substrate for adults, as they are active burrowers. For spiderlings, fill at least 2/3 of the enclosure with substrate.
* Material: A mix of coconut coir, chemical-free potting soil, peat moss, or vermiculite is ideal. These materials help retain moisture and allow for burrowing.
* Moisture: Keep the substrate damp, but not overly wet. You can achieve this by misting lightly every few days or by overflowing the water dish occasionally. Allow the substrate to dry out between waterings to prevent mold.
3. Temperature and Humidity:
* Temperature: Maintain temperatures between 70-85°F (21-30°C). Room temperature is often sufficient, but supplemental heating (like an under-tank heating pad on one side) may be needed if your home is consistently cool.
* Humidity: Aim for moderate humidity, around 60-80%. For spiderlings, slightly damp substrate is needed. For juveniles and adults, allow the substrate to dry out between waterings. Regularly misting the substrate and a water dish should provide enough humidity.
4. Water:
* Always provide a shallow, clean water dish. Ensure it’s easily accessible and shallow enough to prevent drowning, especially for smaller tarantulas. Change the water regularly to maintain cleanliness.
5. Diet:
* Prey: Stripped Knee Tarantulas are carnivorous and primarily feed on live insects. Appropriately sized feeder insects include:
* Crickets
* Discoid roaches
* Mealworms
* Superworms (for larger specimens)
* Feeding Frequency:
* Spiderlings (under 0.5 inches): Flightless fruit flies or confused flour beetles twice a week.
* Spiderlings (over 0.5 inches): Small crickets or pinhead roaches every 10-14 days. Pre-kill prey if it seems too large.
* Juveniles: 1-2 small to medium crickets every 10-14 days.
* Adults: 1-2 appropriately sized insects once or twice a week, or 4-5 adult crickets every three to four weeks.
* Important Notes:
* Prey should be no larger than the tarantula’s abdomen.
* Gut-load feeder insects to provide optimal nutrition.
* Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours to prevent mold and stress to your tarantula.
* Tarantulas can refuse to eat for weeks or even months, especially when in premolt (getting ready to shed). Do not be alarmed by this.
6. Décor and Hides:
* Provide a hide, such as cork bark, a half-log, or a piece of décor they can use as a starter burrow. They will often create their own burrows.
* You can add fake plants and other climbing supports, but ensure floor space is prioritized due to their terrestrial nature.
7. Molting:
* Like all tarantulas, Aphonopelma seemanni will molt as they grow. This is a vulnerable period.
* During molting:
* Ensure proper humidity levels are maintained.
* Do not disturb your tarantula.
* Do not leave any live prey in the enclosure, as it can harm the molting tarantula.
* Wait about 4-7 days after a molt before attempting to feed.
8. Handling and Temperament:
* Stripped Knee Tarantulas are generally considered relatively docile, but individual temperaments vary. They are not prone to biting but may do so if they feel threatened. They are also known to be fast and may kick urticating (irritating) hairs as a defense mechanism, though A. seemanni is less likely to do this compared to some other species.
* For beginners, it’s advisable to limit handling until you are more familiar with the species’ behavior.
* Always wash your hands after handling your tarantula or anything in its enclosure.
9. Cleaning and Maintenance:
* Spot Clean: Remove uneaten prey and waste regularly.
* Full Cleaning: Replace substrate and thoroughly clean the enclosure every 4-6 months, or if it becomes too moist or dirty. Be mindful of mold and mites, especially with damp substrate.
By following these guidelines, you can provide a healthy and comfortable environment for your Stripped Knee Tarantula!