The Needs & Habitat of the Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula

Chaco golden knee tarantulas are a popular species among tarantula keepers because of their temperament and attractive coloration. Additionally, golden knee tarantulas are a very large species; the leg span of these arachnids approaches 8 inches. This species is considered somewhat easy to care for and makes a good pet for beginners that aren't put off by their large size.

  1. Natural Habitat

    • In the wild, Chaco golden knee tarantulas live in the Gran Chaco region of Argentina, Bolivia and Paraguay. Though some areas in this lowland area receive high levels of rainfall, the intense summer heat causes it to evaporate quickly; most of the land is classified as arid or semi-arid. There are few rocks in the region, and in some places, the soil is high in clay content and very deep -- perfect for a tarantula's burrow.

    Enclosure

    • Tarantulas of all types require secure, well-ventilated cages that are large enough to allow natural behaviors. Most commonly 10-gallon aquariums are used to maintain adult spiders, though 20-gallon or larger habitats are acceptable if you have the space available. A screened lid is imperative as these tarantulas can climb glass, though they are not typically arboreal. Lighting fixtures can be placed on top of the screened lid to facilitate better viewing opportunities. These tarantulas require temperatures in the high 70s to low 80s so depending on your home, external heating sources may be required. If you need to heat the tarantula̵7;s cage, place a heat lamp at one end of the cage; this will allow the tarantula to escape the heat if necessary. Measure all temperatures with a digital thermometer to ensure your tarantula thrives.

    Substrate and Furnishings

    • Chaco golden knee tarantulas are a terrestrial species that may excavate their own burrow or use the abandoned burrow of another creature. Accordingly, a loose, particulate substrate is recommended. Organic soil, vermiculite or coco fiber products are the best selections, though it isn̵7;t mandatory to allow your pet to burrow; if you provide numerous burrow-like hiding locations, a paper or mulch substrate can be used. In general decorations will not bother your tarantula, but they can make maintenance more difficult; limit the decorations when you first acquire your pet, and only add more as you become more familiar with the tarantula.

    Food and Water

    • Provide your tarantula with a wide, shallow water dish. Ensure that the arachnid can get in and out of the water dish easily; if you are in doubt, place a rock in the water dish. By keeping a rock in the water dish, a trapped spider can climb the rock to avoid drowning. Keep the water dish full of clean, fresh water at all times. Additionally, some keepers incorporate a humid retreat in the cage that will also help keep the tarantula hydrated. Simply dampen the area under one of the hides with some lukewarm water and replace the hide. Feed your tarantula standard arachnid fare; crickets, roaches and grasshoppers should form the bulk of the diet. Weekly or twice-per-week feedings are appropriate for this fast-growing species.

    Handling

    • The Chaco golden knee tarantula is an impressive species, and it generally tolerates handling. Care is advised, though; given their impressive size and weight, a fall can easily prove fatal for these pretty arachnids. Be careful handling the tarantula and ensure it can̵7;t fall very far, were it to jump out of your hands. This species does possess urticating hairs that may cause severe itching, so some keepers prefer to use gloves. The venom of the species is reportedly mild, but given the size of their fangs, bites are to be avoided.