Vitalius Chromatus (ex Nhandu chromatus) - Brazilian Red & White (Sling)

SIP Code: IL-NW-TE-S-006
Scientific Name: Vitalius chromatus (Mello-Leitão, 1923)
Common Names: Brazilian Red & White Tarantula

Shipping Monday – Wednesday

Origin / Habitat

Native to southern Brazil and Paraguay. Found in open grasslands, forest edges, and scrub zones where it constructs burrows under logs or stones. The natural habitat experiences warm temperatures, moderate humidity, and seasonal rainfall with pronounced dry intervals.

Category

New World Terrestrial / Fossorial

Adult Size

Females: 6 – 7 in (15 – 18 cm) leg span
Males: smaller, leggier, shorter lifespan

Temperament / Behavior

Generally defensive when disturbed. Quick to flick urticating hairs or retreat to its burrow but rarely bites. Known for its striking black, red, and white coloration — black legs with bright red setae and bold white striping on the knees. Displays strong feeding response and frequent surface activity.

Recommended Enclosure

Terrestrial enclosure with 5 – 6 in of slightly moist substrate for burrowing. Provide cork bark or a half-log hide and a shallow water dish. Maintain moderate ventilation and avoid oversaturation of substrate.

Temperature & Humidity

Temperature: 74 – 80 °F (23 – 27 °C)
Humidity: 65 – 75 % RH
Ventilation: Moderate airflow — allow surface drying between mistings

Diet / Feeding Frequency

Slings: Micro crickets or fruit flies 2–3× per week
Juveniles: Small crickets or roach nymphs twice weekly
Adults: Medium crickets or dubia roaches once weekly
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours.

Growth Rate & Lifespan

Moderate growth. Females mature in 3 – 4 years and live up to 15 years. Males typically live 3 – 4 years post-maturity.

Handling / Caution

Handling not advised. V. chromatus can be defensive and prone to flicking hairs. Use long tongs for enclosure work and move calmly to avoid agitation.

Invert-Labs – Summary

The Brazilian Red & White Tarantula is a large, visually impressive species known for its vibrant coloration and bold presence. It thrives in terrestrial setups with moderate humidity and proper ventilation. A rewarding species for keepers seeking a display tarantula with striking contrast and consistent activity.

Care Snapshot

Difficulty: Intermediate
Temperament: Defensive / Skittish
Enclosure: Terrestrial / Fossorial
Temperature: 74 – 80 °F
Humidity: 65 – 75 %
Growth / Lifespan: Moderate | 15 yrs (female)

Beginner Guidance

Best for intermediate keepers comfortable with defensive New World species. Maintain consistent conditions and avoid frequent disturbance to prevent hair flicking or stress behavior.