Brachypelma emilia
✓ VerifiedMexican Red Leg
John, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Quick Facts
Adult Size
5-6 inches
Growth Rate
slow
Temperament
docile
Taxonomy
Community
Experience Required
Beginner Friendly
Great for first-time keepers
🌡️ Climate Requirements
Temperature Range
72°F - 82°F
(22°C - 28°C)
Humidity Range
60% - 70%
🏠 Enclosure Sizes
Sling
Small vial or 2x2x3"
Juvenile
5x5x5"
Adult
10x10x8" or 5-10 gallon tank
🪨 Substrate
Type
dry coco fiber or peat moss mix
Depth
3-4 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
light
Burrowing
Yes
🕷️ Behavior & Temperament
General Temperament
docile
Care Guide
**Mexican Red Leg** — Distinguished by its black body with orange-red patella joints and a distinctive orange carapace pattern. Very similar in care to *B. hamorii*. One of the original 'classic' pet tarantulas. CITES Appendix II listed. Most individuals in the hobby are captive bred. Extremely slow-growing — slings can take 8+ years to reach adulthood. Docile and generally reluctant to flick hairs without good reason. Keep the enclosure dry with one corner allowed to stay slightly moist.
⚠️ 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
6
Total Keepers
N/A
Community Rating
Beginner Friendly
Care Level
🕷️
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