This is a generalised care sheet for Acanthoscurrias, a genus titled (Acanthoscurria). For more in this femily see Category:Theraphosidae, or for a more detailed species care sheet see Category:Acanthoscurria.

Acanthoscurria care sheet Acanthoscurria The Giant Brazilian Whiteknee Bird Eating Tarantula Scientific classification Kingdom: Animalia Phylum: Arthropoda Subphylum: Arachnomorpha Class: Arachnida Subclass: Micrura Order: Araneae Suborder: Opisthothelae Family: Theraphosidae Subfamily: Theraphosinae Genus: Acanthoscurria Species   Acanthoscurria   Acanthoscurria atrox   Acanthoscurria brocklehursti   Acanthoscurria chacoana   Acanthoscurria fracta   Acanthoscurria geniculata   Acanthoscurria insubtilis   Acanthoscurria juruenicola   Acanthoscurria musculosa   Acanthoscurria natalensis   Acanthoscurria sternalis   Acanthoscurria suina

Acanthoscurria is a genus containing over 35 species. A large and wide ranging genus found throughout South America. Most are from Brazil but one species (Acanthoscurria antillensis) is found in the West Indies. All are large, terrestrial burrowers in their natural habitat but in captivity, most will thrive without one. Good display specimens as they rarely hide themselves away, they are voracious feeders making them a welcome and interesting addition to any collection. A standard terrestrial set-up is ideal, using slightly moist substrate, an open water dish and a cork bark or flowerpot retreat (see housing for more information). Average temperatures and humidity percentages are also recommended. All possess urticating hair and the species most commonly kept in captivity will readily use them without much provocation. Most are nervous therefore unsuitable for handling.

Breeding Acanthoscurria

Breeding tarantulas can be extremely difficult but can also be extremely rewarding. From a successful mating, anywhere from 50 to 2000 eggs can be produced, depending upon the size and species of the female. The Brazilian Salmon Pink (Lasiodora parahybana) are of the larger species and have been known to produce some 1500-2000 eggs in one sac. Another popular species The Goliath Bird Eater (Theraphosa blondi) however, has been known to produce as little as 50 eggs despite its “goliath” size.

The basic steps involved in breeding tarantulas are discussed further:

• Preparation for breeding
• Tarantula breeding
• Looking after an egg sac
• Birthing
• Caring for the female
• Caring for the spiderlings

See Also