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Aphonopelma

The Aphonopelma is a type of tarantula found in North America, Central America, and northern Mexico. With 58 different kinds recognized in April 2019, it’s a fascinating group of spiders.

Scientific Classification

Aphonopelma Spider

Spiders Belonging To This Genus

Aphonopelma Chalcodes

Physical Description & Identification

Adults

  • Size: Most of them are about 14 cm to 15 cm (5.5 inches to 5.90 inches) long with a leg span of approximately 16 cm (6.29 inches).

Aphonopelma Spider Size

  • Color: Most of them have a black or brown body and look similar.
  • Other Characteristic Features: The majority of the species belonging to this genus have urticating hairs.

Eggs

The eggs, laid in burrows are protected by the mother.

Spiderlings

The spiderlings remain with their mother for a while after hatching.  Eventually, they move on to make burrows of their own.

The Web

They do not spin webs but guard the entrance of their homes with silk for capturing prey.

Are Aphonopelma Tarantulas Venomous?

Yes, Aphonopelma tarantulas have venom, which they use mainly to subdue their prey.

Can Aphonopelma Tarantulas Bite?

Yes, Aphonopelma tarantulas can bite if threatened. However, their bite is generally considered mild for humans.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Aphonopelma Tarantula

Aphonopelma tarantulas play a pivotal role in the ecological balance. As both predator and prey, they contribute to the regulation of insect populations and serve as a food source for higher predators. Their burrowing behavior also aids in soil aeration and nutrient cycling, benefiting plant communities.

Natural Predator: In the wild, these tarantulas must constantly be wary of natural predators, which include wasps, birds, snakes, coyotes, and lizards. Each predator presents a different challenge, from wasps that can paralyze them to birds with the ability to pluck them from their burrows.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: The relationship between Aphonopelma tarantulas and their prey is complex and critical for maintaining a balanced ecosystem. They use their venom and impressive speed to capture insects, thereby controlling their populations and preventing overconsumption of vegetation.

Relationship with Humans: Some Aphonopelma species are popular in the pet trade due to their docile nature and long lifespans. However, it’s crucial for potential keepers to understand the responsibility of caring for a creature that can live for decades. Furthermore, their presence in the wild is an indicator of environmental health, making them valuable to natural habitats and human agricultural interests alike.

Quick Facts

Lifespan Females: 20 to 40 years
Males: 5 to 15 years
Distribution North America, Central America, North Mexico
HabitatGrasslands, burrows, abandoned dens, and deserts
Predators Wasps, birds, snakes, coyotes, lizards
Diet Cockroach, beetle, mantis, grasshopper, and cricket

Aphonopelma Spider Image

Did You Know

  • Aphonopelma makes up for 10% of the total species of the tarantula family described to date.
  • This genus had more species than their present numbers, but about 33 of them were rejected in the list published in 2016.
  • The taxonomic history of this genus that was first described by British zoologist Reginald I. Pocock is complicated.
  • Some species have gained popularity in the pet trade.

In conclusion, their unique position in the natural world makes Aphonopelma tarantulas fascinating not only to scientists and hobbyists but also to those interested in the health of our planet’s ecosystems. 

The Aphonopelma is a type of tarantula found in North America, Central America, and northern Mexico. With 58 different kinds recognized in April 2019, it’s a fascinating group of spiders.

Aphonopelma Spider

Spiders Belonging To This Genus

Aphonopelma Chalcodes

Physical Description & Identification

Adults

  • Size: Most of them are about 14 cm to 15 cm (5.5 inches to 5.90 inches) long with a leg span of approximately 16 cm (6.29 inches).

Aphonopelma Spider Size

  • Color: Most of them have a black or brown body and look similar.
  • Other Characteristic Features: The majority of the species belonging to this genus have urticating hairs.

Eggs

The eggs, laid in burrows are protected by the mother.

Spiderlings

The spiderlings remain with their mother for a while after hatching.  Eventually, they move on to make burrows of their own.

The Web

They do not spin webs but guard the entrance of their homes with silk for capturing prey.

Are Aphonopelma Tarantulas Venomous?

Yes, Aphonopelma tarantulas have venom, which they use mainly to subdue their prey.

Can Aphonopelma Tarantulas Bite?

Yes, Aphonopelma tarantulas can bite if threatened. However, their bite is generally considered mild for humans.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Aphonopelma Tarantula

Aphonopelma tarantulas play a pivotal role in the ecological balance. As both predator and prey, they contribute to the regulation of insect populations and serve as a food source for higher predators. Their burrowing behavior also aids in soil aeration and nutrient cycling, benefiting plant communities.

Natural Predator: In the wild, these tarantulas must constantly be wary of natural predators, which include wasps, birds, snakes, coyotes, and lizards. Each predator presents a different challenge, from wasps that can paralyze them to birds with the ability to pluck them from their burrows.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: The relationship between Aphonopelma tarantulas and their prey is complex and critical for maintaining a balanced ecosystem. They use their venom and impressive speed to capture insects, thereby controlling their populations and preventing overconsumption of vegetation.

Relationship with Humans: Some Aphonopelma species are popular in the pet trade due to their docile nature and long lifespans. However, it’s crucial for potential keepers to understand the responsibility of caring for a creature that can live for decades. Furthermore, their presence in the wild is an indicator of environmental health, making them valuable to natural habitats and human agricultural interests alike.

Quick Facts

Lifespan Females: 20 to 40 years
Males: 5 to 15 years
Distribution North America, Central America, North Mexico
HabitatGrasslands, burrows, abandoned dens, and deserts
Predators Wasps, birds, snakes, coyotes, lizards
Diet Cockroach, beetle, mantis, grasshopper, and cricket

Aphonopelma Spider Image

Did You Know

  • Aphonopelma makes up for 10% of the total species of the tarantula family described to date.
  • This genus had more species than their present numbers, but about 33 of them were rejected in the list published in 2016.
  • The taxonomic history of this genus that was first described by British zoologist Reginald I. Pocock is complicated.
  • Some species have gained popularity in the pet trade.

In conclusion, their unique position in the natural world makes Aphonopelma tarantulas fascinating not only to scientists and hobbyists but also to those interested in the health of our planet’s ecosystems.