Mike's Basic Tarantula

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Grammostola vachoni

Common name: Argentine vachoni

Indigenous: Argentina

Habitat: Temperate climatic conditions prevail throughout most of Argentina, except for a small tropical area in the northeast and the subtropical Chaco in the north. In Buenos Aires the average temperature range is 20° to 30°C (67° to 86°F) in January and 8° to 15°C (46° to 60°F) in July. In Mendoza, in the foothills of the Andes to the west, the average temperature range is 16° to 32°C (60° to 90°F) in January and 2° to 15°C (35° to 59°F) in July.

Temp/humidity: 65°-78° (18.3°-25.5°C) /55%-65% humidity. I keep this species temperature at 78° (25.5°C) and the humidity at 65%.

Enclosure: This is an opportunistic burrower. As a spiderling, I used a vial that would allow at least three inches (7.62cn) of substrate for burrowing. As sub-adult-adult I use a terrarium that will allow at least four inches (10.16cm) of substrate

Substrate: I use four inches of substrate. (I use a mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, coconut fiber and dirt for firmness, as the substrate).

Retreat/Hide: This is a opportunistic burrower therefore I Place a bark for a starter burrow hide.

Food Consumption: I fed the new born spiderlings fruit flies, than when they reached 1/2" (1.27cm) I introduced baby crickets. My adult Argentina vachoni, I give two (1) one-inch B. dubia roaches or 5 adult crickets weekly. This species is a so- so eater but always consume the prey that is offered it except when it is near a molt.

Water Requirements: I keep a water dish in the tank. I have never seen mine drink. I keep the substrate in the terrarium dry.

Growth Rate: The growth rate of this species is medium. I purchased this tarantula as a spiderling.

Adult Size: I read that they get six inches (15.24cm). After eight years my girl has grown to lanky seven inches (17.8cm).

Temperament: This is a laid back, easy to handle species. It has never kicked hair at me nor given a threat pose. She is always out in the open and is friendly.

Comments: This is a friendly tarantula. It is easy to care for, is hardy and will make a great beginner T.

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