Brachypelma smithi
Mexican Orange Knee (SAM)
Species Info:
Origin
Lifestyle
Temp
Humidity
Leg Span
Suitability
Brachypelma smithi previously sold as Brachypelma annitha is the true Guerrero species originally collected by H. H. Smith and described by Frederick Octavius Pickard-Cambridge. One of the most beautiful tarantulas ever, this species was frequently confused with the population from Colima which was actually a different species, now known as B. hamorii which was described by Tesmoingt, Cleton & Verdez in 1997.
Like all Brachypelma, the spiderlings of B. smithi are not colourful and the adults are not sexually dimorphic in colour. B. smithi is a slow growing species like most Brachypelma averaging 8-10 years to maturity and has a docile temperament. They are easily the longest lived tarantulas with several specimens verified to have passed 30 years of age.
These bulletproof spiders can be kept in most conditions, but it is preferable to house them in a standard terrestrial setup with coir, a hide and a water bowl. One of the best beginner species and a must have for any collection. No wonder it is the most recognisable tarantula of all time.