Chilean Rose (Grammostola rosea)

GEO-LOCATION

Bolivia, Northern Chile and Argentina.

HABITAT

This species is found in many habitats, mostly deserts and scrubland.

CHARACTERISTICS

a) Common Name

Chilean Rose / Chilean Rose Haired Tarantula.

b) Type

Terrestrial.

c) Temperament

The Chilean Rose is one of the most commonly traded tarantulas in the pet trade today. It is considered the best starter species for anybody who wants to get into the hobby of keeping tarantulas. This species of tarantula is popular because it is a combination of being fairly large, hardy and docile.

d) Colouration

The Chilean Rose is readily available and can be found in two different colour phases:

1. A tan to brown overall colour with pink hairs and a pink carapace.

2. Red hairs all over the body.

e) Growth

Relatively slow. Juveniles shed often, though.

f) Full Grown Size

11.5cm – 14cm (4.5 - 5.5 inches).

g) Lifespan

Females: 15+ 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

5 - 7.5cm (2 to 3 inches) of peat.

c) Decor

No decorations are really needed, but as this may very well be your first cage set-up, you can experiment by adding plastic plants, rocks and driftwood.

d) Temperature

21 – 29°C (70 - 85°F)

e) Humidity

75 to 80%

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.

NOTES

This species is known to go on hunger strikes for months at a time. Do not be alarmed if your tarantula goes for a few months without eating anything.