Xenesthis immanis
✓ VerifiedColombian Lesser Black Tarantula, Colombian Black Birdeater
Peter coxhead, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
7-8.5 inches
Growth Rate
fast
Temperament
defensive
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Intermediate
Some experience recommended
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
75°F - 85°F
(24°C - 29°C)
Humidity Range
70% - 80%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Sling
Small vial or 2x2x3"
Juvenile
6x6x6"
Adult
15x15x10"
🪨 Substrate
Type
coco fiber and topsoil mix, moist lower layer
Depth
4-5 inches
🍽️ Feeding Schedule
Sling
Every 4-5 days
Juvenile
Once per week
Adult
Every 1-2 weeks
Prey Size
Appropriately sized prey (up to 2/3 body length)
💧 Additional Care Notes
Water Dish
Required
Webbing
moderate
Burrowing
Yes
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
defensive
Care Guide
**Colombian Lesser Black Tarantula** — A large, impressive birdeater from Colombia and Venezuela. Black body with pinkish-gold hairs on the abdomen and legs, giving it a distinctive sheen. One of two Xenesthis species commonly available in the hobby.
Interesting natural history note: Xenesthis immanis is one of a handful of tarantula species documented in mutualistic relationships with small frogs (Chiasmocleis) in the wild. The frogs shelter near the burrow and eat invertebrates that might harm the eggs; the tarantula does not prey on the frog.
Care: warm, humid conditions. Keep the lower substrate layer moist. Fast grower and reliable feeder. More defensive than Brachypelma species; urticating hair kicking is common during maintenance. Best suited to intermediate keepers who want a large, impressive display animal.
⚠️ Safety Information
Urticating Hairs
This species has urticating hairs that can cause irritation if handled. Use caution during maintenance.
Venom Potency
Venom is not considered medically significant to humans, though reactions may vary.
Species Statistics
0
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Intermediate
Care Level
🕷️
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