Brachypelma boehmei (Mexican fire leg)

Brachypelma boehmei (Mexican Fireleg Tarantula)

Origin: Mexico, particularly the Guerrero region.

Size: 5–6 inches (13–15 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females 20–25 years, males 5–7 years.

Lifestyle: Terrestrial and opportunistic burrower; may create shallow retreats or adopt natural hides.

Appearance: One of the most striking tarantulas, with a black body contrasted by bright red-orange legs and a reddish carapace — earning it the “fireleg” name.

Temperament: Generally calm but can be skittish. Known for flicking urticating hairs readily when disturbed. Best kept as a display species rather than handled.

Care & Habitat:

Enclosure: Terrestrial setup with floor space, a hide, and 4–5 inches of substrate for digging.

Substrate: Coconut fiber, topsoil, or soil mix kept mostly dry with a slightly moist corner.

Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).

Humidity: 60–70%, with a shallow water dish; avoid overly damp substrate.

Diet: Crickets, roaches, and mealworms weekly; juveniles more often.