This is a specific care sheet for Giant Black and White Tarantulas (Acanthoscurria brocklehursti), for more in this genus see Category:Acanthoscurria.

Introduction

The Giant Black and White Tarantula is an extremely large species of spider known to reach leg span’s of up to 23 cm (9 inches). It is a terrestrial species that can be found in the forests of South America but predominantly Brazil. A. brocklehursti is known for it’s aggressive eating habits and vibrant colouration, and often confused with it’s close relative the Giant Black and White Tarantula. This species is aggressive and especially large and is therefore not recommended for beginners.

Habitat

Enclosure

This is a terrestrial species of tarantula so it will not burrow the way some other tarantulas do, hence floor space is more important than height, and a deep substrate of sphagnum moss or coconut fibre should be provided. A good retreat is required to make it feel more secure during moulting. Due to their large size you may feel more comfortable keeping it in a larger tank than you would other species, and the more floor space you provide, the better it is for your pet.

A. brocklehursti usually don’t hide much and spend a lot of time out in the open exploring and so make impressive display Tarantulas. However, much like it’s close relative the Giant Brazilian Whiteknee Bird Eating Tarantula they really do not like any direct light of any description, so be sure to keep the enclosure in a well shaded place away from any direct artificial or natural light sources.

Substrate

Provide a layer of moist substrate atleast 10 cm (4 inches) deep such as peat moss or potting soil. It is important to provide a sufficiently deep substrate, because this helps in maintaining the proper humidity conditions within the habitat. The substrate should be kept damp but not so much so that bacteria and molds begin to grow.

Temperature

This species requires a temperature range of between 27-30°C (80.6-86°F). A temperature gradient is important to allow the tarantula to regulate their body temperature as needed. The easiest way to provide the gradient is by using a heating mat designed for use under reptile tanks. This should be placed under no more than about 1/3 of the tank, so your pet can move from warmer to cooler temperatures if desired. Always verify that appropriate temperatures are being provided by using accurate thermometers in a few locations within the enclosure.

Humidity

Humidity should be maintained at between 70-80% by providing a large, shallow water bowl and by misting the enclosure regularly. To successfully maintain the desired humidity conditions for your tarantula you are going to need a hygrometer. A hygrometer is a device used to measure relative humiditywithin the enclosure.

Feeding

Spiderlings will eat fruit flies, pinhead crickets, roach nymphs, and other small insects. Adults eat crickets, roaches, other large insects.

Water

Providing a large, shallow water dish will ensure your spider has all the water it needs aswell as help to maintain the relative humidity within the habitat.

Handling

Handling of any tarantuala is not recommended, and this is especially true for the Giant Black and White Tarantula due to its aggressive temperament.

Breeding

The Brazilian Whiteknee is harder than other species to breed but has an eggsack of around 1000.