Mexican Red Knee Tarantula (Brachypelma hamorii)

The Mexican red knee tarantula, native to areas in Mexico, often confuses people because it refers to two spider species. Brachypelma hamorii and Brachypelma smithi both have red knees, making it hard to tell them apart. Their unique looks make them favorites for pet lovers. Here, we’ll share facts about these fascinating creatures.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Theraphosidae
• Genus: Brachypelma
• Scientific name: Brachypelma hamorii

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

• Size: They are large in size with the females having a length of 52mm to 54mm, while the male counterparts are shorter, being 46mm to 52 mm long. Their fourth leg is said to be the longest, 67 mm in a female and 75 mm in males.

• Color: Their coloration seems to be unique, as the center of each of their legs has markings of orange-red. The remaining part of their body is brown, with the adult males having a grayish-red coloration around their carapace’s border and reddish-black markings from the central part of their tibiae. The carapace of the females may however differ in pattern and coloration, being mostly black, bordered with a shade of brownish pink. The legs below their knees are red in color from which they may have got their name.

• Other Characteristic Features: Like most other tarantulas, they are robust and heavy having short, dark hairs.

Eggs

The eggs are mostly laid in spring, 1,000 of them at a time in a clutch.

Spiderlings

It takes one to three months for the spiderlings to be hatched from the eggs, though the juvenile spiders remain in their protective shelter for two more weeks before dispersing.

The Web

Their webs are located at the entrance of their habitat for the purpose of catching prey that enter into it.

Are Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas Venomous?

Yes, Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas are venomous, but their venom is generally mild to humans and is not considered dangerous.

Can Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas Bite?

Yes, Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas can bite, especially if they feel threatened. While their bite can be painful due to their large fangs, it’s typically not harmful to humans.

Ecological Importance and Behavior of Mexican Red Knee Tarantula

Mexican Red Knee Tarantulas play a crucial role in their ecosystems as both predators and prey. They help control populations of insects, small reptiles, and rodents. Their burrowing behavior also aerates the soil, which can be beneficial for plant life.

Natural Predators: These tarantulas have several natural predators, including larger mammals, birds, and reptiles. These predators help regulate the tarantula population, maintaining ecological balance.

Prey-Predator Dynamics: The Mexican Red Knee Tarantula sits in the middle of the food web; it preys on smaller animals but also falls prey to larger species. This dynamic is vital to the health of their ecosystems, preventing any one species from becoming too dominant.

Relationship with Humans: While they are venomous, their bites are not considered dangerous to humans and generally result in mild pain and swelling. These tarantulas have become a symbol of the exotic pet trade, which has contributed to their Near Threatened status due to overcollection and habitat destruction.

Quick Facts

Lifespan	Males: 5 years Females: 20 to 30 years
Distribution	Mexican states of Jalisco, Colima, and Michoacán, Panama, and the south-western parts of the United States
Habitat	Scrublands, dry thorn forests, deserts, and deciduous forests
Diet	Small reptiles, frogs, insects, birds and rodents

Did You Know

• A large number of these spiders are known to have been caught and smuggled outside their place of origin i.e. Mexico. They are on the Near Threatened list and on the risk of being endangered.

In summary, the Mexican Red Knee Tarantula is a captivating species that is vital for the health of its native environments.