Chilean Rose Tarantula

Chilean rose tarantulas are medium-sized spiders that are native to the deserts of Chile. This spider is one of the popular and commonly available pet tarantulas across the globe. It (Grammostola rosea) is also known as Chilean flame tarantula, Chilean fire tarantula, Chilean red-haired tarantula or the Chilean rose hair tarantula. Even though there is no subspecies for Grammostola rosea, there are different color morphs due to which, the spider is known in different names. However, there are many alternative scientific names for this species. Scroll down for more information about this spider.

Chilean Rose Tarantula - Physical Features

Chilean rose hair tarantula is a medium-sized spider with the adult females having a body length of around three inches. It has been noted that these spiders have a maximum leg span of six inches. Males possess a smaller body size, as compared to females, but, the leg span is almost similar for both. One of the distinguishing features of this tarantula is the hair color (in case of spiders, hair is in fact the bristles on their body). Even though, there are no subspecies for this single species that belong to the genus Grammostola in the family Theraphosidae, three different color morphs are found. In other words, Chilean rose tarantulas can be found in three different hair colors. They are the gray form with occasional pink hair, another with full of dense pink hair and the third is a brilliant copper form. Almost all of them have a uniform gray undercoat. It has been observed that the males possess a more vibrant hair color as compared to females. It was believed that they are different species, but, it has been proved that the color forms are only color morphs and not different species.

How to Take Care of a Chilean Rose Tarantula

As mentioned above, Chilean rose hair tarantulas are the most popular pet spiders and it is pretty easy to take care of them. They need a terrarium, with a temperature range of 20-30°C and a humidity of 70 to 80%. The length of the terrarium must be at least twice as that of the leg span of the spider and it must have some hiding places too (small clay flower pots are ideal as a retreat). Usually, a tank with more than 15 inches width is used for Chilean rose tarantulas. The substrate (made of peat moss or potting soil) must be at least two to three inches and damp. Use a shallow and wide water dish for these spiders. They can be fed with large crickets and locusts. However stop feeding and remove food from the tank, as they start molting. Tiny spiderlings can be fed with pinhead crickets and other small insects.

Handling a Chilean Rose Tarantula

Chilean rose hair tarantulas are docile in nature. One of the attractive features of these large spiders is the hair color, which made them popular. Apart from that, they are easy to care for. Even though they can inflict painful bites, these spiders are not that venomous to cause serious health problems. However, allergic reactions may develop in some cases. Regular handling of these spiders is not recommended, as they may bite or release urticating hair, that can get stuck in your eyes. So, it is always recommended to use protective gloves and eye gear, while handling these spiders.

In short, Chilean rose tarantulas are perfect as pet spiders, but, handle them with care. Even a small fall may prove fatal for them. Apart from that, they may also inflict bites.