Species name: Caribena versicolor
Common name: Caribena versicolor tarantula, Martinique tarantula
Taxonomic classification:
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Arachnida
- Order: Araneae
- Family: Theraphosidae
- Genus: Caribena
Description:
- Size: Caribena versicolor tarantulas are relatively large compared to other tarantula species, with a body span that can reach up to 12 cm.
- Coloration: One of the most distinctive features of this species is its spectacular coloration. Juveniles have a predominantly metallic blue appearance, while adults develop a more varied color pattern including blues, greens, yellows, and reds.
- Morphology: They have a robust body covered in hairs, eight eyes arranged in two rows, and prominent chelicerae (fangs).
Habitat and distribution:
- Natural habitat: Caribena versicolor tarantulas are arboreal spiders and prefer to live in tropical and subtropical forested areas.
- Geographic distribution: They are endemic to the Lesser Antilles, specifically islands such as Martinique, Dominica, Guadeloupe, and Saint Lucia.
Behavior and feeding:
- Behavior: They are generally calm and non-aggressive spiders, although they may display a defensive attitude if they feel threatened.
- Feeding: They are opportunistic predators that primarily feed on insects and other arthropods. They capture their prey using silk to build webs or by ambushing them directly.
Reproduction:
- Sexual dimorphism: Males are typically slimmer and smaller than females. Additionally, they may have spurs on their front legs, which they use during courtship and mating.
- Reproductive cycle: The reproduction of Caribena versicolor tarantulas involves a complex mating ritual, often ending with the female consuming the male after mating.
