The Brazilian Red and White Tarantula, Vitalius chromatus Schmidt (formerly Nhandu chromatus), is a hobby classic that has so much to love. They are large, beautifully colorful members of the subfamily Theraphosinae that are often out in the open, making a great display species. This species is hardy and easy to breed, producing egg sacs with hundreds (to even thousands!) of spiderlings. V. chromatus reach a 6-7" diagonal leg span and look like they spawned off a toy store shelf or out of an acid trip. This species is similar in coloration to Acanthoscurria geniculata, but has a bone-colored, more pale carapace. The abdomen has a black base color and is lined in a forest of large red urticating hairs. On each leg, the femurs are jet black, but the patella through the tarsus has narrow, white zebra strips, and each segment has a distal (away from the body) band of white hairs. In addition to the wild color contrasts, each leg is also lined in long red setae.

V. chromatus is native to subtropical forests and grasslands in Brazil and Paraguay. This tarantula is a terrestrial, opportunistic burrower that builds silk-lined retreats under and around logs, debris, and rocks. This theraphosid has a medium growth rate. Although it is suitable for beginners, V. chromatus is skittish and defensive. This tarantula will readily kick clouds of urticating hairs off its abdomen and can move very quickly when spooked. Their urticating hairs are particularly irritating if they come into contact with mucous membranes. If V. chromatus runs while feeling defensive, it can leave a cloud of urticating hairs in its wake, which is not something you want to contend with without safety goggles, long sleeves, a mask, and gloves.

A sizable terrestrial enclosure with more width than height is essential. Reduced height is crucial for preventing large tarantulas from climbing high and risking a mortal fall injury. It is also imperative not to use mesh anywhere on the lid, and the lid should be latched, weighted, and/or well-secured as these large tarantulas are very strong and can easily push open tank lids.

Provide at least 4" deep, organic, humusy substrate for adults and keep the substrate barely moist for spiderlings to mostly dry with periodic light misting for larger juveniles and adults. A well-secured cork hide with a cavity or cave beneath suits this species.

The Brazilian Red and White Tarantula is a fantastic choice for those searching for a beautiful display spider.

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