Brachypelma boehmei

Mexican Fireleg

9 active listings · Spiders

About the species

Mexican Fireleg (Brachypelma boehmei) is a terrestrial tarantula occurring naturally in Mexico, primarily in the western part of the state of Guerrero. It inhabits dry forests and thorn scrub, where it uses existing hollows or digs burrows itself. Adult females reach about 6–7.5 cm in body length. The species is distinguished by intensely orange-red leg colouration contrasting with a dark abdomen and is among the most characteristic members of the genus Brachypelma.

Origin and distribution

Mexico (Guerrero)

Endemic

The species is endemic to Guerrero (Mexico).

Occurrence areaLocation / context

Current listings

Care at a glance

  • Size

    Females approx. 6–7.5 cm body length

  • Enclosure type

    Horizontal, for a terrestrial species with the option to dig

  • Substrate

    A stable, thicker substrate layer that allows shallow digging

  • Furnishings

    A hide and constant access to fresh water

  • Conditions

    Rather dry; good ventilation, with locally slightly more humid substrate

  • Characteristics

    Slower growth, a tendency to use hides, and urticating hairs

Care and behaviour

Brachypelma boehmei is a terrestrial species that readily uses hides and may also deepen a prepared retreat. The enclosure should provide a stable substrate layer that allows digging, as well as a secure hide and constant access to fresh water. Because of its massive build, the height of the enclosure should not be excessive.

In nature the species occurs in dry forests and scrub of Mexico, so in captivity most of the substrate may remain rather dry. A good solution is to keep one small area slightly more humid, while still providing good ventilation. A constantly wet and stuffy enclosure should be avoided.

Brachypelma boehmei is mainly nocturnal and often stays near the entrance of the hide or burrow. It is a rather calm species during observation, but individual animals may react nervously to disturbance. Growth is relatively slow, so this is a species that requires patience, especially with young animals.

Good to know

Brachypelma boehmei has urticating hairs that it may use when threatened. Contact with skin, eyes, or mucous membranes can cause irritation. When working in the enclosure it is worth being cautious, limiting sudden movements, and avoiding direct contact with the spider. The species is also covered by CITES regulations, so when acquiring it attention should be paid to the required documents and legal origin.

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