Pamphobeteus sp. cascada (Cascada birdeater)

Pamphobeteus sp. “Cascada” (Cascada Tarantula)

Origin: Ecuador, South America.

Size: 7–9 inches (18–23 cm) leg span.

Lifespan: Females 12–15 years, males 3–4 years.

Lifestyle: Terrestrial and opportunistic burrower; often uses hides or shallow retreats but may dig when given deep substrate.

Appearance: Large, robust tarantula with dark base colors and vibrant purple to pinkish highlights on the legs and abdomen. Its iridescence under light makes it one of the more eye-catching Pamphobeteus species.

Temperament: Generally defensive and fast. Readily flicks urticating hairs when threatened. Best kept as a display animal.

Care & Habitat:

Enclosure: Spacious terrestrial setup with a large hide and 5–6 inches of substrate for digging.

Substrate: Moisture-retentive soil, coconut fiber, or a soil mix.

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C).

Humidity: 70–80%, with a shallow water dish and occasional misting.

Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms, and other large feeder insects weekly; juveniles more often.