A. Juruensis
Species Name: Avicularia juruensis
Common Name(s): Yellow-Banded Pinktoe Tarantula
Native Habitat:
Origin: South America (Amazon Basin regions)
Environment: Tropical rainforest with high humidity, warm temperatures, and abundant vegetation
Natural Behavior: Arboreal—commonly found in trees, often creating silk retreats in hollow spaces or among foliage
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Size:
Arboreal Setup: A taller enclosure is preferred; at least 12–18 inches in height for an adult, with width and depth at least equal to the tarantula’s leg span.
Ensure good cross-ventilation to reduce stagnant air and prevent mold growth.
Substrate:
Substrate Depth: 1–2 inches of coco fiber or topsoil mix, primarily for maintaining humidity rather than burrowing.
Keep substrate slightly moist but not soaked.
Hides & Decor:
Provide vertical structures: cork bark tubes, branches, or artificial vines for climbing and web attachment.
Artificial or live plants can offer additional cover.
Water Dish:
A small, shallow water dish should be available.
Refresh water regularly, ensuring it remains clean.
Environmental Conditions
Temperature:
Ideal Range: 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Normal room temperature often suffices; avoid prolonged drops below 65°F (18°C).
Humidity:
Aim for higher humidity, around 70–80%.
Lightly mist the enclosure 1–2 times per week if needed, while maintaining adequate ventilation.
Monitor humidity with a hygrometer to prevent mold.
Lighting:
No special lighting is required.
Ambient room lighting is sufficient; avoid harsh, direct light.
Feeding
Diet:
Offer live insects such as crickets, roaches, or small locusts.
Prey size should be about the length of the tarantula’s abdomen or slightly smaller.
Feeding Frequency:
Juveniles: Feed 1–2 times per week.
Adults: Every 1–2 weeks.
Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours to maintain cleanliness and reduce stress.
General Care & Behavior
Temperament:
A. juruensis is generally docile but can be skittish.
Like other Avicularia species, it’s more inclined to leap or retreat than show defensive aggression.
Handling:
Handling is possible but should be approached with caution.
They may jump suddenly, so handle over a soft surface close to the ground.
Keep sessions brief to minimize stress.
Molting:
Before molting, expect reduced feeding and possibly more time spent in its silk retreat.
After molting, wait about a week before offering food to allow fangs and exoskeleton to harden.
Health Indicators:
A healthy A. juruensis shows steady, if not constant, feeding habits and maintains a plump abdomen.
Look for lethargy, prolonged refusal of food (outside pre-molt), or a shrunken abdomen as signs of potential issues. Consult experienced keepers or an exotic veterinarian if concerns arise.
Maintenance
Cleaning:
Spot-clean leftover prey and waste promptly.
Full substrate changes are rarely needed; only if mold or pests are observed.
Keep the water dish clean and filled.
Record Keeping:
Note feeding dates, molts, and any environmental adjustments.
Monitor humidity and temperature levels, making changes as necessary.
Species-Specific Notes
A. juruensis typically spins a tube-like silk retreat above ground level, so vertical fixtures are essential.
Proper humidity, ventilation, and vertical space are key to thriving in captivity.
