Mike's Basic Tarantula

A Basic Site for the Tarantula enthusiast

Euathlus parvulus

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Common name: Chilean Gold

Indigenous: Chile

Habitat: The northern region is almost entirely desert and is one of the driest areas in the world. Temperatures, however, are moderated by the offshore presence of the cold Peru, or Humboldt, Current. The average temperatures at Antofagasta range from 18° to 23°C (64° to 74°F) in January and from 12° to 16°C (53° to 62°F) in July. In Santiago the average range is 12° to 29°C (54° to 85°F) in January and 3° to 15°C (38° to 58°F) in July.

Temp/humidity: 76°-82° (24.4-27.8C) /55%-65% humidity I keep this species temperature at 78° (25.5C) and the humidity at 55- 65%.

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

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

Retreat/Hide: 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" I introduced baby crickets. My sub-adult Chilean Gold, I give one (1) one-inch B. dubia roaches or 4 adult crickets bi-weekly. This species is some what of a slow eater. The only time this tarantula refuses food is 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 at one-half inch (1.27cm) and after two years it is only 2.5" (6.35cm).

Adult Size: I read that they get four inches (10.16cm).

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 tarantula is a good beginner T. It is also hardy and colorful sporting a tiger striped abdomen with a golden brown bushy carapace.