Sazima’s Tarantula (Pterinopelma sazimai)

Sazima’s tarantula, or the Brazilian Blue, as alternately called, is endemic to Chapada Diamantina National Park of Brazil. The species remains endangered at present, the main reasons being habitat loss and illegal pet trade.

Scientific Classification

• Family: Theridiidae
• Genus: Latrodectus
• Scientific name: Latrodectus regina

Physical Description and Identification

Adults

Size: They are around 6 inches (15.24 cm) long.

Color: They have a iridescent blue body that gives them their name.

Other Characteristic Features: The spider has urticating hair on the abdomen

Eggs

The female spider produces egg sacs post mating to release their eggs into them.

Spiderlings

They have a pale blue coloration after hatching from the eggs.

The Web

In the wild, they create a thick web under branches, leaves, rocks, and trunks, mostly to protect themselves from harsh weather.

Are Sazima’s Tarantula Venomous

They are mildly venomous, but their degree of harm to humans remain unrecorded.

Quick Facts

Other Names	Brazilian blue tarantula
Distribution	Brazil
Habitat	Ecological islands
Diet	Waxworms, super worms, mealworms, and crickets
Web Type	Thick
ICUN Conservation Status	Not listed

Did You Know

• The name of the species honors, Brazilian zoologist, Dr. Ivan Sazima who collected the first samples of this species.
• In 2012, it appeared in the Top 10 List of new species as prepared by the International Institute for Species Exploration (IISE).

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