Grammostola

The Grammostola spiders are a standout in the tarantula family. They’re medium to big-sized spiders that call South America home. Way back in 1892, a French expert named Eugene Louis Simon introduced them to the world. By March 2020, we know of 20 types of these spiders.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Theraphosidae
• Genus: Grammostola

Spiders Belonging to this Genus

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

• Size: Females are 7 – 9 inches (17.7 – 22.8 cm), while males are smaller.
• Color: Most of the species belonging to this genus have a brown body with orangish-red or pinkish hairs.
• Other Characteristic Features: The male spiders of this genus are characterized by long legs.

Eggs

The eggs are small and round, with about 500 of them laid by the females in a silken sac.

Spiderlings

Some spiderlings go through several molting phases before adulthood.

The Web

They do not make webs but use silk to protect their burrows. However, male spiders make sperm webs for reproduction.

Are Grammostola Spiders Venomous?

Yes, Grammostola spiders have venom. But for most people, it isn’t very harmful. They mainly use it to catch and eat their food.

Can Grammostola Spiders Bite?

Grammostola spiders can bite if they feel threatened. The bite might cause a little discomfort, but it’s usually not something to be too worried about.

Quick Facts

Distribution	Bolivia, Argentina, Peru, Chile, and Uruguay
Habitat	Scrub, dessert areas, and grassland
Diet	Beetles moths, grasshoppers, cockroaches, lizards, and mealworms
Lifespan	Males: 5-6 years Females: 20-25 years

Did You Know

• Some of the species like Grammostola rosea and Grammostola pulchripes are considered good pets because of their docile nature.
• While petting them, it is necessary to keep their cage dry, as they cannot withstand wet surfaces. Under such circumstances, they would stand on their tip-toe or even climb to the edges of the rails risking a fall.

Image Credits: etsy.com