Aphonopelma sp 'Diamondback' (Desert Diamondback Tarantula)

Scientific Name: Aphonopelma sp. Diamondback

Name Pronunciation: Aphonopelma (uh-fone-uh-PEL-muh) Diamondback (DAI-mund-bak)

Common Name: Desert Diamondback Tarantula

Name Meaning:  Derived from Greek, aphonopelma is split in two parts: “áphonos” means soundless or silent and ‘pelma’ means “sole” or “foot”. Diamondback derived from English Refers to a unique, sharp visual contrast where the front and back halves of the spider's body feature contrasting light (blond/tan) and dark (deep black) sections.

Classification: New World

Type: Terrestrial

Experience level: Beginner

Life Expectancy: Females live 15-20 years; Males live 5-10 years

Size: 5 1/2” (14cm) DLS (Diagonal Leg Span)

Growth Rate: Slow

Natural Habitat:  Mexico-Veracruz, Jalisco, and Hidalgo

Housing Needs: substrate 5”+, one or more hides, waterbowl

Temperature: 70°–80°F (20°–28°C)

Humidity: Arid

Temperament: Skittish

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