Tarantulas at
a glance
Tarantulas, these fascinating arachnids, are nocturnal predators that prey on live prey, mainly insects. With a life expectancy of up to 30 years, they become true long-term companions.
Tarantulas are solitary creatures and, with the exception of a few communal species, cannibalistic. Therefore, you should never keep several tarantulas together (neither of the same species nor of different species).
Tarantulas reproduce between a male and a female. After mating, the female produces an egg sac that can contain anywhere from a few dozen to several hundred babies, depending on the species. The reproduction of tarantulas in captivity is complex and is not covered in this basic guide.
Although all tarantulas spin webs, the way they use them varies from species to species.
As they are native to almost all continents (with the exception of Antarctica), they have adapted to a wide variety of habitats. To date, over 1000 species are known, some of which are protected by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).
Tarantulas have venomous chelicerae, which they use to capture prey and often play a role in feeding. As a general grasping tool, the chelicerae form stinging organs, with a venom duct running through them in web spiders. However, tarantulas are not usually deadly to humans, except in very rare cases of allergic reaction.
These spiders grow through successive molts, a process in which they shed their old skin. Molting is a delicate time when tarantulas are particularly vulnerable.
These solitary animals are often misunderstood, but in return they offer a unique and enriching experience when breeding.
Warning: this hobby can quickly become addictive!
Simplified anatomy
1. Leg
2. Pedipalpus
3. Book lungs
4. Epigastric furrow
5. Fang
6. Mouth
7. Chelicerae
8. Ocular tubercule
9. Spinneret
a. Cephalothorax
b. Abdomen