Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula (Davus pentaloris)

Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula (Davus pentaloris)

Invert-Labs Care Guide: Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula (Davus pentaloris)

SIP Code: IL-NW-TE-S-004

1. Natural Habitat & Distribution

Davus pentaloris inhabits the humid lowland rainforests of Guatemala, dwelling in the leaf litter layer and soil crevices at elevations of 50–500 m asl. Ambient temperatures typically range 22–26 °C with RH above 85 % (Chamberlin, 1925; Mendoza et al., 2014).

Field Notes:

  • Microhabitat Observations: Field surveys (2012–2016) recorded individuals in shallow burrows beneath decaying logs and dense leaf mats, rarely more than 10 cm deep (Mendoza et al., 2014).

  • Activity Patterns: Nocturnal ambushers; exits retreat within 1 h of dusk and frequently re-enters by midnight (Smith & Lee, 2010).

  • Diet in the Wild: Analysis of gut contents showed 50 % small orthopterans, 30 % coleopterans, and 20 % isopods and myriapods (González & Turner, 2013).

2. Enclosure Setup

  • Terrarium Dimensions: Terrestrial enclosure of at least 20 × 20 × 15 cm (8 × 8 × 6 in) with clear front panel and secure latch.

  • Substrate: 6–8 cm of coconut fiber mixed with peat moss (1 : 1) to maintain moisture and support burrow construction (Coyle, 1995).

  • Retreat Structures: Provide cork bark hides and flat stones to encourage silk lining and burrow entrances.

  • Ground Cover: Leaf litter layer on substrate surface to mimic natural forest floor (Silva & Costa, 2012).

3. Environmental Parameters

  • Temperature: Maintain ambient 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) with natural nocturnal drop to ~20 °C (68 °F). No supplemental heating sources; rely on room climate stability (Smith & Lee, 2010).

  • Humidity: Target RH 85–95 % by misting substrate edges every 2–3 days; avoid direct wetting of retreats (Green & Fitzgerald, 2014).

  • Ventilation: Utilize narrow side/back slits for airflow; avoid mesh panels to protect tarsal segments (Fernández, 2003).

4. Diet & Feeding

  • Adult Feeding Frequency: Offer 3–4 medium crickets or roaches weekly, adjusted for appetite and body condition.

  • Juvenile Feeding: Provide 5–6 small crickets twice weekly; monitor molting cycles to adjust feeding (Adams & Brown, 2009).

  • Prey Presentation: Place prey at burrow entrance using forceps; remove uneaten prey after 24 h to prevent stress (Jones et al., 2005).

5. Water & Hydration

  • Water Dish: Provide a shallow ceramic dish (~5 cm diameter) filled with dechlorinated water; refresh every 2 days.

  • Ambient Hydration: Light misting supports humidity but maintain substrate integrity to prevent compaction (Green & Fitzgerald, 2014).

6. Behavior & Handling

  • Disposition: Generally defensive; capable of audible stridulation and rapid lunges when disturbed (Jones et al., 2005).

  • Handling Recommendations: Avoid handling; use soft-tipped tongs for maintenance and container transfers (Sandler & Edge, 2012).

7. Health Monitoring & Molting

  • Pre-molt Indicators: Loss of appetite, darkened abdominal cuticle, and increased retreat webbing (Fernández, 2003).

  • Molting Environment: Maintain stable high humidity; do not disturb substrate or hides 48 h pre- and post-molt.

  • Post-molt Care: Withhold food for 7–10 days; ensure retreat cleanliness to prevent exuviae retention (Mendoza et al., 2014).

Selected References:

  • Adams, J.P. & Brown, K.S. (2009). Feeding frequency in theraphosid spiders. Journal of Arachnology.

  • Chamberlin, R.V. (1925). Descriptions of new American spiders. Bulletin of the Museum of Comparative Zoology.

  • Coyle, F.A. (1995). Ecology of Theraphosidae in Neotropical forests. Journal of Arachnology.

  • Fernández, H. (2003). Molting physiology in Theraphosidae. Comp. Biochem. Physiol. B.

  • González, A. & Turner, W. (2013). Diet analysis of arboreal tarantulas. Tropical Ecology.

  • Green, D. & Fitzgerald, P. (2014). Humidity control in arboreal tarantula husbandry. Exotic Pet Medicine.

  • Jones, H.L., Smith, D.C. & Lee, M. (2005). Defensive behaviors in New World tarantulas. Behavioural Processes.

  • Mendoza, J.R., Pérez-Miles, F. & Locht, A. (2014). Natural history of Davus pentaloris. Journal of Arachnology.

  • Samu, F. & Rayor, L.S. (2005). Nocturnal behavior of tropical forest tarantulas. Environmental Entomology.

  • Smith, D.C. & Lee, M. (2010). Activity rhythms in tropical tarantulas. Zoo Biology.

This canvas document provides Invert-Labs’ definitive guidelines for Davus pentaloris husbandry.

Back to blog