Amazonius burgessi (Ghost Tree Spider) 0.5" | MM

The Ghost Tree Spider, Amazonius burgessi Hüsser is a sleek, handsome, arboreal phantom from the Amazonian rainforests of Colombia and Peru in the subfamily Psalmopoeinae. Like its relatives in the genera Psalmopoeus and Tapinauchenius, A. burgessi has long, powerful legs and compensates for lacking urticating hairs with speed, agility, and a defensive disposition more reminiscent of Old World tarantulas. A. burgessi is a modestly-sized arboreal species, growing at a fast pace to a 5 inch (12.7cm) leg span. The leggy spiderlings start out with a vivid chevron and cactus-like bristles on bony legs with adorably enlarged scopulae [gecko-like “toe” pads]. With each molt, the juveniles progressively transform into a kaleidoscope of structural colors. Mature females take on a gorgeous combination of metallic colors, among them, mossy green, gray, navy blue, purple, and maroon tones overlane on a black exoskeleton, plus salmon-colored bristles on the posterior legs. Like a ghost, you can bet this beauty can ‘teleport’ when it wants to move. Although toxicology studies are not yet available, there is a chance that Amazonius envenomations could produce burning chili-pepper-like sensations like Psalmopoeus spp., so it is probably best not to handle these spiders. A. burgessi build their arboreal hammocks in tree hollows in the wild and are best housed in a vertical arboreal setup with cross ventilation and mostly dry substrates. Periodic misting of one corner or side of the enclosure and/or a water bowl can help ensure adequate humidity. All-around, a beautiful arboreal tarantula that is highly recommended for anyone with a passion for earth-toned metallic spiders, genera of the Psalmopoeinae, and/or those preparing to raise Old World tarantulas. 

Subfamily : Psalmopoeinae

Genus : Amazonius

Type Locality: Leticia, Colombia

Etymology : The specific epithet is a noun in apposition as a recognition to Joseph Burges, USA who collected important material for this study.

IUCN Redlist: Not Evaluated

Hüsser, M., 2018. A first phylogenetic analysis reveals a new arboreal tarantula genus from South America with description of a new species and two new species of Tapinauchenius Ausserer, 1871 (Araneae, Mygalomorphae, Theraphosidae). ZooKeys, (784), p.59.

https://www.tarantupedia.com/psalmopoeinae/amazonius/amazonius-burgessi

Photo Credit: TheSpiderShop.Co.UK