Golden Stripe Tarantula Care

Because golden stripe tarantulas -- Grammostola pulchripes -- also known as golden knee tarantulas, have a peaceful nature, these spiders are among the less difficult species to take care of. They achieve a large size but rarely attack unless badly provoked. However, like any other tarantula species, golden stripes are not hands-on pets. Handling can cause an allergic reaction in the handler or damage the spider.

  1. Habitat

    • The habitat basics for housing a golden stripe tarantula are a 10- or 15-gallon tank, cork bark, a water dish and a suitable substrate such as chemical-free potting compost. Immature golden stripes burrow a lot and so they need a 6 inch or deeper substrate layer. Adult tarantulas need less, often preferring to hide below a piece of cork bark or similar shelter. Adult golden stripes, and older juveniles, require a shallow water dish with sloping, roughly textured sides, to allow easy access. Spiderlings -- babies -- need misting for their water supply. A reptile heat mat helps to maintain the right temperature.

    Feeding

    • A suitable golden stripe tarantula diet consists of large insects such as crickets and roaches. As with other species, adult golden stripes only need feeding once or twice a week. Remove uneaten insects and insect parts after a day. It is important to never feed a tarantula during or for several days after the molt. When tarantulas shed their skin, they become very vulnerable until the new skin hardens. A live insect could severely damage your pet. Also, tarantulas do not eat during the molt.

    Environmental Conditions

    • Because golden stripe tarantulas are a rain forest species, they need a warm environment with moderately high humidity. A temperature of between 72 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit is preferable. Maintain a humidity of about 70 to 75 percent. A plant mister filled with spring water allows you to raise the humidity, but try to avoid spraying the spider directly.

    Maintenance

    • Tarantulas produce very little waste, and golden stripes are no exception. A golden stripe's tank only needs a full cleaning about once every six months. Monitor your spider's behavior and appearance for any changes, which could indicate a problem. A ventilated lid should prevent the humid air from becoming stagnant, but watch out for mold. In the event of mold, clean the tank thoroughly. Dispose of the substrate and disposable accessories; clean the tank and water bowl with hot water and dishwashing liquid; rinse and dry the tank and bowl; replace the substrate; and provide new accessories.