Chaco Golden Knee

GEO-LOCATION

Native to South American countries Argentina and Paraguay.

HABITAT

This tarantula is an opportunistic burrowing terrestrial tarantula. They tend to burrow while younger and adopt a pre-existing hide as its home when it begins to mature.

CHARACTERISTICS

a) Common Name

Golden Knee.

b) Type

Terrestrial burrower.

c) Temperament

The Chaco Golden Knee tends to be one of the more docile and calm species of tarantula and therefore makes a great beginners tarantula.

d) Colouration

This tarantula has long light-coloured hairs all over its body and gold stripes on its "knees".

e) Growth

Medium.

f) Full Grown Size

20cm (8 inches).

g) Lifespan

Females: 15 - 25 years. Males generally live less than half that.

KEEPING THIS SPIDER IN CAPTIVITY

a) Cage setup

Spiderlings can live in a clear plastic container with air holes. Adults can live in a 1ft (10-gallon) tank. Floor space is more important than height.

b) Substrate

7.5cm – 10cm (3 - 4 inches) of peat.

c) Decor

No decorations are really needed, but you can add plastic plants and driftwood. A flower pot can be used as a hide.

d) Temperature

21 – 27°C (70 - 80°F)

e) Humidity

60 to 70%

f) Water source

Sub-adults – adults may drink from a shallow, wide water dish.

g) Feeding

Spiderlings can be fed on pinhead crickets and other small insects. Adults can be fed on large crickets and other large insects, as well as an occasional pinkie mouse.