The Colombian Red Leg: A Complete Care Guide for Megaphobema robustum
The Megaphobema robustum, affectionately known as the Colombian Red Leg, is a captivating tarantula prized for its impressive size, striking coloration, and generally docile temperament. Native to Colombia, this terrestrial species makes a fantastic addition to the collection of both beginner and experienced tarantula keepers. This comprehensive care guide will provide you with everything you need to successfully house and care for this beautiful arachnid.
Understanding Your Colombian Red Leg
Before diving into the specifics, let's get acquainted with Megaphobema robustum characteristics:
Size: This is a large tarantula, reaching a leg span of 7-9 inches when fully grown.
Appearance: As the name suggests, the Colombian Red Leg boasts stunning red/orange striping on its legs, contrasting beautifully with its dark brown/black body. Juvenile spiders are typically more drab, with the vibrant coloration developing as they mature.
Temperament: Generally docile, but can be skittish. While not typically aggressive, they are capable of delivering a painful bite if threatened. They also possess urticating hairs, which they can flick as a defense mechanism, causing skin irritation.
Lifespan: Females can live for 15-20 years, while males have a shorter lifespan of around 5-7 years.
Setting Up the Perfect Enclosure
Creating the right environment is crucial for the well-being of your Megaphobema robustum. Here's a breakdown of the essential components:
Enclosure Size: A 10-gallon tank is generally sufficient for juveniles, but adults will require a larger enclosure, ideally a 15-20 gallon long tank. Floor space is more important than height, as they are terrestrial.
Substrate: A deep layer (4-6 inches) of substrate is necessary for burrowing. A mixture of coco fiber, peat moss, and vermiculite works well. This mixture retains moisture well and allows for easy burrowing.
Humidity: Maintain a humidity level of 70-80%. This can be achieved by occasionally misting the substrate. Ensure proper ventilation to prevent mold growth.
Temperature: Keep the temperature between 75-85°F (24-29°C). A heat mat placed on the side of the enclosure (never underneath) can provide supplemental heat if needed. Always use a thermostat to regulate the temperature and prevent overheating.
Hiding Place: Provide a hide, such as a cork bark piece, half log, or commercially available hide. This will provide your tarantula with a secure place to retreat and reduce stress.
Water Dish: A shallow water dish should always be available, filled with fresh, clean water. Ensure the dish is shallow enough to prevent the tarantula from drowning.
Decorations: While not essential, adding decorations like fake plants or branches can enhance the enclosure's aesthetics and provide additional climbing opportunities (though Megaphobema robustum primarily stay on the ground).
Feeding Your Colombian Red Leg
Megaphobema robustum are opportunistic feeders and will readily accept a variety of prey items.
Diet: Offer a varied diet of crickets, roaches (dubia roaches are an excellent choice), mealworms, and occasionally superworms.
Feeding Schedule: Spiderlings should be fed 2-3 times a week, while juveniles and adults can be fed 1-2 times a week.
Prey Size: The size of the prey should be appropriate for the size of the tarantula. A good rule of thumb is to offer prey that is roughly the same size as the tarantula's abdomen.
Uneaten Prey: Remove any uneaten prey items after 24 hours to prevent them from stressing the tarantula or potentially harming it during a molt.
Molting: A Crucial Process
Molting is a natural process in which tarantulas shed their exoskeletons to grow. During this time, your tarantula will become more reclusive and may refuse food.
Signs of Molting: Loss of appetite, a darker coloration, lethargy, and retreating to its burrow are all signs that your tarantula is preparing to molt.
Humidity: Maintaining proper humidity is especially important during molting to ensure a successful shed.
Do Not Disturb: Avoid disturbing your tarantula during molting. This is a vulnerable time, and any stress can be harmful.
After Molting: Allow the tarantula a few days to harden its new exoskeleton before offering food. The exact time will depend on the age of the tarantula, with spiderlings hardening faster than adults.
Handling and Temperament
While Megaphobema robustum are generally docile, handling should be kept to a minimum. They are easily stressed, and even a seemingly gentle fall can be fatal.
Handling: If you must handle your tarantula, do so over a soft surface and avoid sudden movements. Always be aware of its behavior and respect its boundaries.
Urticating Hairs: Remember that they can flick urticating hairs, which can cause skin irritation. Wash your hands thoroughly after any interaction with your tarantula or its enclosure.
Bites: While rare, bites are possible. Although the venom is not considered medically significant, a bite can be painful and cause localized swelling. Seek medical attention if you experience any severe symptoms after a bite.
Common Problems and Prevention
Dehydration: Ensure a constant source of fresh water and maintain proper humidity.
Mold Growth: Provide adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth in the enclosure.
Injuries: Handle your tarantula with care to prevent falls and other injuries.
Parasites: While rare, parasites can occur. Regularly inspect your tarantula for any signs of infestation. Consult a veterinarian with experience in invertebrates if you suspect a parasite problem.
Conclusion
The Megaphobema robustum is a rewarding and fascinating tarantula to keep. By providing a suitable environment, a proper diet, and careful attention to its needs, you can enjoy the beauty and wonder of this captivating species for many years to come. Remember to research thoroughly and always prioritize the well-being of your tarantula. With patience and dedication, you'll be well-equipped to provide a happy and healthy life for your Colombian Red Leg.