Name Pronunciation:
Avicularia (uh-vik-yuh-LAH-ree-uh)
purpurea (purh-PURH-ee-uh)
*Adapted from The American Tarantula Society
Avicularia purpurea Kirk, 1990
Size: 4-5”
Growth Rate: Medium – Fast
Natural Habitat: Equador – Amazon Rainforest. This species seeks hollows in trees and leaves to construct it’s web.
Housing Needs: Arboreal setup. Higher humidity is needed and can be obtained by misting every few days and adding a cup of water to the habitat. A tall piece of cork bark against a side of the enclosure is good to offer as something to anchor its web on. Do not saturate the substrate.
Temperament: Most report this to be an easy going species that rarely gets defensive. This genus has a unique defense mechanism by which they will launch excrement when they feel threatened. It can go as far as 2 or 3 feet. They also tend to jump, especially as babies and juveniles, and are particularly sensitive to breezes.
Longevity: Males 2-3 years, Females 8-12 years
About: As adults this gorgeous species has a purple-blue metallic iridescence to it. Starting off as fuzzy purple spiderlings, you will watch it change a little with each molt as it develops into a regal adult. They are arboreal and can be found in hammock webs and in crevices. They require good ventilation and higher humidity.