T. apophysis (Pinkfoot Goliath Tarantula)

Theraphosa (New World Giant Birdeater Tarantula)

 * Level: Intermediate-Expert
 * Native Habitat: The goliath birdeater is native to the upland rain forest regions of northern South America: Suriname, Guyana, northern Brazil and southern Venezuela. The spider is terrestrial, living in deep burrows, and is found commonly in marshy orswampy areas. It is a nocturnal species
 * Common Names
 * Pinkfoot Goliath Tarantula
 * Goliath Birdeater
 * Goliath Tarantula
 * Venezuelan Bird Spider

Captive Habitat

 * Enclosure Type: Terrestrial/Fossorial; T. apophysis is a very large spider (one of the largest) and requires more space than most other terrestrial tarantula. The enclosure may be as simple large plastic tupperware tub modified with air holes, or an aquarium (15-20g.) T. apophysis will be more comfortable with a hide to retreat into, tarantulas without hides may act more aggressively during enclosure maintenance.
 * Substrate: 4 " (10cm) or more of natural soil (treated for parasites,) potting soil, and coconut coir are all usable substrate. Sand, small stones, leaf litter and twigs can be mixed with the substrate to create a more natural environment. This species will want to burrow and may become agitated if not allowed to create a burrow at least a few inches beneath the surface.
 * Conditions: Moist; The soil should be regularly irrigated but not become soggy or swampy. The substrate should retain moisture.
 * Humidity: 75-80% Periodic misting is important.
 * Temp: 68-86*F(20-30*C)

Husbandry

 * Temperment: Semi-aggressive and nervous (handling not advisable.)
 * Behavior: T. apophysis is an aggressive species and prefers to ambush prey from its burrow. This tarantula will spend much of its time hidden in its burrow and tend to have an insatiable appetite.
 * Size: Leg Span 9-13 " (22-33cm)
 * Social: No; this species should only be paired when mating conditions are right, under those circumstances close observation is advised as the larger female may attempt to cannibalize the male.
 * Life Span: Females - 15-25+ Males - 3-9
 * Venom: Mild in most cases
 * Urticating Hair: Yes
 * Feeding: Crickets, roaches, meal worms, etc (larger individuals will accept pinkies and fuzzies if you have the stomach for it, feeding on vertebrates tends to be a messy affair.)
 * Cleaning: The enclosure should be regularly cleared of waste material from feeding to prevent molding, but changing the substrate should be limited to avoid undo stress on the tarantula.