Birupes Simoroxigorum (Borean Neon-Blue Leg) Care Guide
Birupes simoroxigorum, commonly known as the Borean Neon-Blue Leg, is a fascinating and visually striking species of tarantula that has gained popularity among arachnid enthusiasts. Native to the boreal forests of Eastern Europe, this tarantula is admired for its vibrant blue legs and unique behavioral traits. Caring for a Borean Neon-Blue Leg can be rewarding, but it requires a specific set of conditions to ensure its health and well-being. This comprehensive care guide will provide you with all the essential information needed to successfully maintain this beautiful tarantula.
Introduction to Birupes Simoroxigorum
Scientific Classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Arachnida
Order: Araneae
Family: Theraphosidae
Genus: Birupes
Species: B. simoroxigorum
Physical Characteristics
Size: Adult Borean Neon-Blue Legs typically measure between 5 to 6 inches in leg span.
Coloration: The most striking feature is the vivid blue color of the legs, which contrasts with a dark, often black or dark brown, body.
Sexual Dimorphism: Females are generally larger and more robust than males, with males often having longer legs and a more slender body.
Behavior
Temperament: Generally fast and defensive if provoked.
Activity Level: Nocturnal, spending most of the day hidden in their burrows or shelters and becoming active during the night.
Webbing: moderate web production; they prefer a terrestrial setup with a focus on burrowing.
Housing
Enclosure
Type: A terrestrial setup is ideal for Borean Neon-Blue Legs. A glass terrarium with a secure lid is recommended.
Size: The enclosure should be at least three times the leg span of the tarantula in length and twice its leg span in width. Height should be at least twice the leg span to allow for burrowing.
Substrate: Use a mix of peat moss, coconut fiber, and vermiculite to a depth of 4-6 inches. This substrate should be kept slightly moist to mimic the natural humidity of their habitat.
Decorations: Provide a hide, such as a half-log or a small cave, to offer a secure place for the tarantula to retreat. Ensure that the hide is large enough for the tarantula to fit comfortably and deep enough for it to burrow.
Temperature and Humidity
Temperature: Maintain a temperature of 72-78°F (22-26°C). A heat mat can be used on one side of the enclosure to create a temperature gradient.
Humidity: Aim for a humidity level of 70-80%. Mist the enclosure lightly every few days to maintain moisture, especially during molting periods.
Feeding
Diet
Prey: Borean Neon-Blue Legs are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of insects. Crickets, roaches, and mealworms are suitable options.
Frequency: Feed adult tarantulas once every 7-10 days. Juveniles should be fed more frequently, about 2-3 times per week.
Size of Prey: Prey should be no larger than the tarantula's body size to prevent injury.
Feeding Techniques
Live Feeding: Offer live prey to stimulate natural hunting behavior. Ensure the prey is healthy and free from pesticides.
Supplements: Dust prey with a calcium supplement occasionally to support the tarantula's health and molting process.
Handling and Interaction
Handling
Caution: handle at your own risk.
Defensive Mechanisms: If threatened, the Borean Neon-Blue Leg may display a threat posture, raise its front legs, and show its fangs. It is best to avoid handling when the tarantula is in this state.
Interaction
Observation: Spend time observing your tarantula's behavior to understand its needs and patterns. This can help you identify when it is stressed or preparing to molt.
Molting and Health
Molting
Frequency: Juveniles molt more frequently than adults. Molting is a critical time, and the tarantula should not be disturbed during this process.
Signs of Molting: Reduced appetite, increased burrowing, and a darker abdomen are common signs. The tarantula will lie on its back to molt.
Health Indicators
Activity: Regular activity, including hunting and burrowing, indicates good health.
Molting Success: Successful molting without any stuck sheds or deformities is a positive sign.
Exoskeleton Care: After molting, the tarantula's exoskeleton will be soft and vulnerable. Avoid feeding for at least a week to allow the exoskeleton to harden.
Breeding
Maturity
Sexual Maturity: Females reach maturity at around 4-5 years, while males mature faster, typically within 2-3 years.
Mating: Introduce the male to the female's enclosure carefully. Mating can be a delicate process, and the male should be removed immediately after to prevent potential cannibalism.
Egg Sac and Incubation
Egg Sac: The female will produce an egg sac, which she will guard. Provide a moist environment to ensure proper incubation.
Incubation Period: The incubation period is typically 6-8 weeks. Keep the substrate slightly damp and maintain the temperature and humidity levels.
Hatchlings
Care for Hatchlings: Once the spiderlings emerge, they can be separated and housed in small, ventilated containers. Feed them small prey, such as fruit flies, and maintain appropriate temperature and humidity levels.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Dehydration
Symptoms: Lethargy and sunken abdomen
Solution: Increase humidity and mist the enclosure more frequently. Provide a shallow water dish, but ensure it is not too deep to prevent drowning.
Overfeeding
Symptoms: Obesity lethargy and possible impaction
Solution: Reduce feeding frequency and monitor the tarantula's condition.
Stress
Symptoms: Reduced activity, refusal to eat, and excessive hiding.
Solution: Minimize handling and disturbances. Ensure the enclosure is clean and conditions are stable.
Conclusion
Caring for a Birupes simoroxigorum can be a rewarding experience for arachnid enthusiasts. By providing a suitable environment, a balanced diet, and minimal handling, you can ensure the health and longevity of this beautiful tarantula. Regular observation and attention to its needs will help you identify and address any issues promptly, allowing your Borean Neon-Blue Leg to thrive in captivity.