Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens Sling

Description

The Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens, commonly known as the Greenbottle Blue Tarantula (GBB), is one of the most striking and popular tarantulas in the hobby. Native to the arid scrublands of northern Venezuela, this species is instantly recognizable by its vivid colors: shimmering metallic blue legs, a bright orange abdomen, and a greenish-blue carapace. Its bold appearance and lively personality make it a favorite among keepers.

Unlike many tarantulas, the GBB is an enthusiastic web-builder. It often transforms its enclosure into a dense network of silk tunnels and curtains, making it both fascinating to watch and beautiful to display. It’s generally hardy, adaptable, and beginner-friendly, provided its needs are met.

Care Tips & Housing:

• Enclosure: A medium-sized terrarium with more horizontal than vertical space works best, as this species is semi-arboreal but prefers a lot of ground room for webbing. Secure ventilation is important to prevent stagnant air.

• Substrate: Keep the substrate relatively dry, such as a mix of coco fiber or sandy soil. Provide some anchor points (like branches, cork bark, or artificial plants) for webbing.

• Humidity & Water: They thrive in low-to-moderate humidity (around 60–70%). A small water dish should always be available, but avoid over-misting, as this species prefers a dry setup.

• Temperature: Room temperature of 22–26 °C (72–78 °F) is ideal, with slight variation tolerated.

• Feeding: They are excellent eaters and will readily take crickets, roaches, or other appropriately sized insects. Adults can be fed once or twice a week, with spiderlings needing smaller, more frequent meals.

• Temperament: While not aggressive, they are quick and skittish, preferring to retreat into their web rather than confront threats. Handling is not recommended, but observing them in a well-decorated enclosure can be very rewarding.

Overall, the Greenbottle Blue is a hardy, fast-growing, and visually stunning tarantula that thrives with a simple but carefully maintained enclosure. It’s an excellent choice for keepers looking for an active and colorful display species.