Grammostola pulchripes (Chaco golden knee)

Grammostola pulchripes (Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula)

Origin: Paraguay and Argentina, South America.

Size: 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females 15–20 years, males 5–6 years.

Lifestyle: Terrestrial and opportunistic burrower; may dig shallow burrows or use natural hides.

Appearance: Large, heavy-bodied tarantula with a dark brown to black base color and striking golden-yellow striping on the knees.

Temperament: Generally calm, docile, and slow-moving, making it one of the most beginner-friendly tarantulas. May flick urticating hairs if disturbed.

Care & Habitat:

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

Substrate: Coconut fiber, topsoil, or soil mix that retains some moisture.

Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C).

Humidity: 60–70%, with a shallow water dish; mostly dry substrate with occasional misting.

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