Acanthoscurria geniculata

🕷️ Technical sheet: Acanthoscurria geniculata

Common name: Brazilian Whiteknee Tarantula
Scientific name: Acanthoscurria geniculata
Family: Theraphosidae
Origin: Brazil (Amazon region)

🏞️ Natural habitat

Found in tropical, humid areas of Brazil, rich in organic soil. It lives in burrows or shelters under logs and stones, preferring warm, moist environments.

📏 Size

Adult females can reach 18–20 cm in leg span, males around 15 cm.

🎨 Coloration

Dark brown to black body with distinct white bands on the leg joints, giving it a striking and elegant appearance.

🌡️ Ideal conditions in captivity

Temperature: 24–28 °C
Humidity: 70–80 %
Substrate: coconut fiber, peat or similar mix, at least 8 cm deep
Shelter: logs, bark, or artificial hides
Lighting: soft, without direct sunlight

🍽️ Diet

Feeds on live insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. Adults may occasionally take larger prey.

😌 Behavior

A terrestrial species with a defensive nature but generally calm. When threatened, it raises its front legs and may release urticating hairs.

🧬 Lifespan

Females: up to 15 years or more
Males: around 4–6 years

⚠️ Notes

Handling not recommended. Hardy and fast-growing species, ideal for keepers with some experience.