Caribena versicolor + Set up

This is a well known species that needs no introduction as it is probably the most popular and docile among all arboreal tarantulas in the hobby. This species is on top of nearly every keepers wish list if they don’t have this species already. The main reason for this is due to their extremely beautiful colouration which starts as a Turquoise color while as a spiderling but as soon as they start maturing they have a beautiful bright emerald green carapace, lush red abdomen and purplish legs. Many consider this the most colourful species in the hobby.

Like most species in the Avicularia genus they live in arboreal silken retreats made of web either underneath the bark, in the hollows of trees and among leaves and branches in humid forested areas. It requires humid conditions, a vertical arboreal vivarium with plenty of arboreal retreats and a water bowl for drinking. Another important factor in enclosures for this species is good ventilation and it also recommended you decorate the enclosure with either live or artificial plants. It is also worth noting that this species though docile can move very fast and will jump from place to place.

Captive breeding of this species does happen regularly so this species is usually available now and again throughout the year. The eggsack usually consists of around 90-120 eggs and spiderlings, like the adults are arboreal and need to be kept in a similar but smaller sized enclosure. This species grows at an average rate and reaches maturity at about 1.5-2 years. Unlike other Avicularia like Avicularia avicularia and Avicularia mettalica this species is easily distinguishable from other species so you’ll have no problems identifying and finding a mate for this species. Though some species of Avicularia can be reared together in communal groups it is not recommended for this species as they can be aggressive to each other.

Being able to observe growing this beautiful species from a cute Turquoise tiny spiderling to a colourful adult is a real pleasure. If you have got this species already we suggest you try keeping it!