Aphonopelma Seemanni | Costa Rican Zebra | Tarantula Care Guide
Common Name: Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula
Scientific Name: Aphonopelma seemanni
Lifespan: 15-20 years (females), 5-7 years (males)
Size: 5-6 inches (leg span)
This species is popular among hobbyists due to its attractive dark brown and white-striped legs, as well as its hardy nature and interesting burrowing behavior. Though a bit skittish, it is manageable for intermediate tarantula keepers.
Housing
- Enclosure Size: 5-10 gallon tank for an adult. Provide more horizontal space as they are terrestrial species.
- We would recommend any of the Terrestrial Enclosures we have in the shop.
- 0.5"-1": Terrestrial Sling Crib
- 1"-3": Small Slider or Small Cuboid
- Full size adult: Large Slider, Large Cuboid, or Large Coffin.
- If you wish to go a bit overboard, you can do the Terrestrial XL but for this species it is not needed at all.
- Substrate: 4-6 inches of moist coco fiber or topsoil. Aphonopelma seemanni is a burrowing species, so deeper substrate allows for natural digging behavior. We recommend the Arachnidirt in our shop.
- Hide: Provide a hide, such as a cork bark or half log, and they will sometimes create their own burrow. We have a ton of great accessories.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow to prevent mold while maintaining adequate humidity.
Temperature and Humidity
- Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C). They do well at typical room temperatures but may need heating during colder months.
- Humidity: 75-80%. Light misting every few days to maintain humidity is usually sufficient. Ensure good ventilation to prevent stagnant air.
- Water Dish: A shallow, clean water dish should always be available.
Diet
- Food: Feed gut-loaded crickets, roaches, or mealworms. Adults should be fed every 7-10 days, while juveniles can be fed every 5-7 days.
- Size of Prey: Prey should be no larger than the tarantula’s abdomen.
- Feeding Notes: Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours to avoid mold and stress.
Temperament/Personality
- Behavior: Aphonopelma seemanni is generally calm but can be skittish and may burrow for long periods of time, which is normal.
- Handling: Handling is not recommended due to their speed and potential for kicking urticating hairs when stressed.
Molting
- Signs of Molting: They will stop eating and become sluggish before a molt. The tarantula may also dig a secure burrow or web the area heavily.
- After Molting: Avoid feeding for about a week after molting to allow the exoskeleton to harden.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- Spot Clean: Remove uneaten prey and waste regularly. The moist substrate makes it important to watch for mold and mites.
- Full Cleaning: Replace substrate and thoroughly clean the enclosure every 6 months or when it becomes too moist or dirty.
General Notes
- Burrowing Behavior: Aphonopelma Seemanni is an active burrower, and providing deeper substrate allows them to create intricate tunnels.
- Lighting: No special lighting is needed. Avoid direct sunlight and bright heat sources, which can cause stress.
- Activity: They may burrow and disappear from view for extended periods but will often emerge during the night.
Where to find this tarantula?
- Coming soon