Aphonopelma moderatum
Rio Grande Gold
Quick Facts
Adult Size
~5 inches
Growth Rate
slow
Temperament
docile but skittish; quick to retreat when startled
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Beginner Friendly
Great for first-time keepers
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
70–80°F
(21–27°C)
Humidity Range
50% - 65%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Adult
10x10x8 inches
🪨 Substrate
Type
dry coco/soil, deep enough to burrow; hide; water dish
Depth
4-5 inches
🍽️ Feeding Schedule
Adult
1 prey every 10-18 days
💧 Additional Care Notes
Water Dish
Required
Webbing
light
Burrowing
Yes
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
docile but skittish; quick to retreat when startled
Care Guide
A striking US-native from southern Texas with a golden carapace over darker legs. A slow-growing, hardy, and very long-lived (females 22-40 years) display species that spends a good deal of time out of its hide. Not typically defensive but can be skittish and quick to bolt. Keep on deep, dry, well-draining substrate with a hide and a water dish at low-to-medium humidity. New World: urticating hairs are its main defense; venom is not medically significant.
⚠️ 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
1
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Beginner Friendly
Care Level
🕷️
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