Ephebopus murinus (Skeleton Leg)

Ephebopus murinus – Skeleton Tarantula

Origin: Northern South America (Brazil, French Guiana, Suriname).

Size: Medium species, 4–5 inches (10–13 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females: up to 12–15 year   Males: about 3–4 years

Lifestyle: Fossorial (burrowing) but also makes silken retreats above ground.

Known for its unusual defensive strategy: using urticating hairs on the palps instead of the abdomen.

Appearance: Dark brown body with a striking cream or white pattern on the legs, resembling bones → “skeleton” look.

Slender and sleek build compared to many New World terrestrials.

Temperament: Defensive and fast, will readily stand its ground.

Can kick urticating hairs from its palps, which is unique among tarantulas.

Not recommended for beginners.

Care & Habitat:

Tropical rainforest species.

Needs both burrowing substrate and surface structure for webbing.

Enclosure:

Tall terrestrial setup, at least 12–14 inches tall.

Provide deep substrate (5–6 inches) for burrowing.

Include cork bark and anchor points for webbing.

Substrate:

Moist, firm substrate mix (coco fiber/soil).

Keep slightly damp but not waterlogged.