Cyriopagopus lividus
✓ VerifiedCobalt Blue Tarantula
Photo: unknown author via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
4-5 inches
Growth Rate
medium
Temperament
extremely defensive, very fast
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Advanced
Experienced keepers only
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
77–85°F
(25–29°C)
Humidity Range
75% - 85%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Sling
Small vial or 2x2x3"
Juvenile
5x5x5"
Adult
10x10x8"
🪨 Substrate
Type
moist coco fiber and topsoil, compactable for deep burrows
Depth
6-8 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
heavy
Burrowing
Yes
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
extremely defensive, very fast
Care Guide
**Cobalt Blue Tarantula** — One of the most visually striking tarantulas in the world — iridescent cobalt blue coloration that must be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Formerly known as *Haplopelma lividum*. An obligate burrower that spends most of its life underground; rarely seen except at feeding time. **MEDICALLY SIGNIFICANT VENOM** — documented bite reports describe severe muscle cramps and intense pain (PubMed case reports confirm this). Combined with its speed and extreme defensiveness, this is a serious advanced-only species. High humidity and deep moist substrate are essential. Maintenance operations carry significant bite risk — use a catch cup and take no shortcuts.
⚠️ Safety Information
Urticating Hairs
This species does not have urticating hairs (Old World species).
Venom Potency
⚠️ WARNING: This species has medically significant venom. Bites can cause severe pain and systemic effects. Only for experienced keepers. Seek immediate medical attention if bitten.
Species Statistics
4
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Advanced
Care Level
🕷️
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