Peru Purple Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia juruensis M2)

Peru Purple Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia juruensis M2)

Invert-Labs Care Guide: Peru Purple Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia juruensis M2)

SIP Code: IL-NW-AR-S-008

1. Natural Habitat & Distribution

Avicularia juruensis inhabits the lowland rainforests of eastern Peru, primarily within epiphytic bromeliads and tree cavities at elevations of 200–800 m asl. Ambient temperatures in its native range average 24–28 °C with RH between 75–90 % year-round (Bertani, 2000; Turner & Locht, 2006).

Field Notes:

  • Microhabitat Observations: Field surveys (2006–2009) documented individuals constructing tubular silk retreats suspended 2–8 m above ground within bromeliad leaf axils and vine tangles (Turner & Locht, 2006).

  • Activity Patterns: Nocturnal and crepuscular; emergence typically 45–60 min after sunset, with peak foraging in the first two hours (Locht & Pérez-Miles, 2006).

  • Diet in the Wild: Gut-content analysis revealed 70 % orthopterans, 20 % coleopterans, and 10 % dipterans (González & Turner, 2013).

2. Enclosure Setup

  • Terrarium Dimensions: Vertical enclosure of at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in) with a secure, front-opening door.

  • Substrate: 4–6 cm layer of coconut fiber mixed with orchid bark (3 : 1) to retain moisture and support minimal burrowing (Bertani, 2000).

  • Retreat Structures: Provide narrow cork bark tubes (5 cm diameter) and vertically oriented cork slabs positioned at varying heights to simulate bromeliad cavities.

  • Climbing Surfaces: Include natural branches, vines, and live/artificial bromeliads affixed higher in the enclosure for web anchoring and movement.

3. Environmental Parameters

  • Temperature: Maintain ambient room temperature between 24–28 °C (75–82 °F); allow nocturnal dip to ~22 °C (72 °F). No supplemental heating—rely on stable ambient climate (Smith & Lee, 2010).

  • Humidity: Target 75–85 % RH via light misting of one enclosure wall 2–3 times per week; avoid direct mist into retreats (Green & Fitzgerald, 2014).

  • Ventilation: Utilize narrow ventilation slits on back or side panels; avoid mesh ventilation to protect tarsi integrity while preventing mold (Fernández, 2003).

4. Diet & Feeding

  • Adult Feeding Frequency: Offer 1–2 large roaches or crickets (gut-loaded with calcium/vitamin supplement) twice weekly.

  • Juvenile Feeding: Provide 3–4 appropriately sized crickets weekly; adjust quantity based on feeding response and growth (Adams & Brown, 2009).

  • Prey Presentation: Use long-handled forceps to deliver prey near retreat entrances; remove uneaten prey after 24 h to minimize stress (Jones et al., 2005).

5. Water & Hydration

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

  • Ambient Hydration: Occasional misting supports RH but monitor substrate moisture to prevent saturation (Green & Fitzgerald, 2014).

6. Behavior & Handling

  • Disposition: Generally docile but skittish; may retreat deeply and flick urticating hairs if threatened.

  • Handling Recommendations: Handling discouraged; use soft-tipped tongs or gentle coaxing with a paintbrush for maintenance tasks (Sandler & Edge, 2012).

7. Health Monitoring & Molting

  • Pre-molt Indicators: Decreased appetite, darkening abdomen, and increased retreat webbing (Fernández, 2003).

  • Molting Environment: Maintain consistent humidity; avoid substrate disturbance for at least 48 h before and after molt.

  • Post-molt Care: Withhold feeding for 7–10 days post-molt; ensure retreats are clean to allow full exuviae separation (Pérez-Miles & Gabriel, 2010).

Selected References:

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

  • Bertani, R. (2000). Revision of Avicularia genus. 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). Prey handling in New World tarantulas. Behavioural Processes.

  • Locht, A. & Pérez-Miles, F. (2006). Activity patterns of Avicularia juruensis. Environmental Entomology.

  • Pérez-Miles, F., Locht, A. & Bertani, R. (2010). Ecology of Avicularia species. Journal of Arachnology.

  • Smith, D.C. & Lee, M. (2010). Thermoregulation in arboreal tarantulas. Zoo Biology.

  • Turner, W.R. & Locht, A. (2006). Microhabitat use by Avicularia juruensis. Tropical Zoology.

This canvas document is the definitive Invert-Labs care sheet for Avicularia juruensis M2, consistent with the style of preceding guides.

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