Emerald skeleton tarantulas (Ephebopus cyanognathus) are captivating creatures known for their vibrant coloration, distinct patterns, and intriguing behavior. As one of the more exotic species in the tarantula world, they attract enthusiasts for their unique appearance and relatively less common presence in the pet trade. However, their temperament is a key consideration for anyone thinking about keeping one as a pet. Understanding how they behave, their tendencies, and how they interact with their environment can help you determine if this species is the right fit for your collection.
Overview of the Emerald Skeleton Tarantula
Before delving into their temperament, it’s important to understand a bit about the emerald skeleton tarantula’s physical features and natural habitat. This species is native to the dense rainforests of South America, specifically in countries like Suriname, French Guiana, and Brazil. They prefer dark, humid environments where they spend most of their time burrowed deep in the earth, emerging only for short periods to hunt or explore.
The emerald skeleton tarantula gets its name from the striking greenish-blue hue on its legs and body, which is enhanced by the skeleton-like markings on its exoskeleton. These spiders are relatively medium-sized, with leg spans ranging from 5 to 6 inches (12 to 15 cm), and they can live up to 10 years in captivity.
Natural Behavior of the Emerald Skeleton Tarantula
In the wild, emerald skeleton tarantulas are burrowers, which means they spend most of their time hidden underground. Their burrows provide protection from predators and a safe place to ambush prey. They are not an active species, but rather they rely on patience to hunt, waiting for insects to wander too close to their hideout.
In captivity, it’s important to replicate their natural environment by providing a suitable substrate for burrowing. This species is nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. During the daytime, they will likely remain hidden in their burrow, emerging only when the lights go down.
General Temperament of Emerald Skeleton Tarantulas
Emerald skeleton tarantulas are known for being somewhat skittish and defensive, particularly when they are younger. They are not typically aggressive but can react defensively if they feel threatened. This defensive behavior includes rapid movements, threat postures, and in some cases, defensive striking or kicking of urticating hairs.
Despite their defensive tendencies, they are not overly aggressive in the sense that they actively seek confrontation. Most of their behavior is geared toward avoiding potential threats. This makes them less suitable for beginner tarantula keepers who might not be prepared for a more cautious or defensive species.
Are Emerald Skeleton Tarantulas Aggressive?
While emerald skeleton tarantulas are not known for being outright aggressive, they can display aggression if provoked. For example, if they are disturbed too often or if they are not provided with enough hiding spaces in their enclosures, they may exhibit signs of irritation, such as rearing up on their back legs or kicking urticating hairs.
Urticating hairs are tiny, barbed hairs located on the underside of a tarantula’s abdomen. When threatened, the tarantula can rub its abdomen against its hind legs to kick these hairs into the air. They can cause irritation and discomfort, and in some cases, an allergic reaction in humans. However, these hairs are more of a defensive mechanism than a sign of active aggression.
Defensiveness Versus Aggression
It’s important to differentiate between defensiveness and aggression when considering the temperament of an emerald skeleton tarantula. Defensiveness is typically a response to feeling threatened or cornered. When these tarantulas feel insecure, they will use their natural defense mechanisms, like rearing up or kicking hairs, to protect themselves.
Aggression, on the other hand, would mean the tarantula actively seeks to harm another creature. In the case of the emerald skeleton tarantula, their behavior tends to be more about self-preservation rather than initiating combat. This makes them less dangerous than more aggressive species like the pinktoe tarantula (Avicularia avicularia), which may show more assertiveness in different situations.
Activity Levels and Handling Temperament
Emerald skeleton tarantulas are relatively calm when left alone but are also known to be shy and reclusive. They are not inclined to wander around their enclosures during the day and prefer to stay hidden in their burrows. This makes them more challenging for keepers who want to interact with their tarantulas regularly. If you are looking for a tarantula species that will happily roam about its enclosure and allow for more handling, you may want to consider a more active species like the Chilean rose tarantula (Grammostola rosea).
For the emerald skeleton tarantula, handling should be approached with caution. These spiders do not usually enjoy being handled, and trying to do so can cause stress. If you do attempt handling, it is essential to be gentle and respectful of their space. Sudden movements or rough handling can trigger their defensive instincts.
Interaction with Humans
While emerald skeleton tarantulas are not generally aggressive toward humans, they do not seek interaction either. These spiders are typically more comfortable in an enclosure that allows them to hide and create their own space. In the wild, they rarely come into contact with humans, and in captivity, they tend to be more solitary.
If you attempt to handle them too frequently or without understanding their behavior, it can lead to stress. Some tarantulas may become more defensive with repeated handling, while others may become more docile over time. However, with emerald skeleton tarantulas, it is more likely that they will remain consistently defensive and shy.
Factors That Affect Their Temperament
The temperament of an emerald skeleton tarantula can be influenced by several factors, including:
Age: Younger tarantulas are often more skittish and defensive. As they mature, they may become slightly calmer but still retain a cautious demeanor. Older individuals may be less reactive to their surroundings but will still prefer to stay hidden.
Habitat: An emerald skeleton tarantula’s temperament can be affected by the conditions of its habitat. A secure, appropriately designed terrarium with ample burrowing material will help the tarantula feel safe, which may result in a less defensive and more relaxed animal. Inadequate housing or a lack of hiding places can make them more stressed and more likely to exhibit defensive behavior.
Feeding and Care: Proper feeding and care are vital for maintaining a healthy temperament. A well-fed tarantula is less likely to be defensive and more likely to retreat into its burrow when disturbed, rather than immediately adopting a threatening posture. Also, regular maintenance of the terrarium ensures that they have a safe environment in which to thrive.
Human Interaction: As mentioned, emerald skeleton tarantulas generally prefer minimal human interaction. Repeated, respectful handling may help them become more accustomed to their owners, but they are unlikely to ever be as docile as other species. A hands-off approach is often the best way to maintain their peace of mind.
Why Are They Best Suited for Experienced Keepers?
Due to their relatively shy and defensive nature, emerald skeleton tarantulas are generally best suited for experienced tarantula keepers. Beginners may find it difficult to manage a tarantula that exhibits defensive behaviors, and improper handling or stress may harm both the keeper and the spider.
They require a bit more understanding of tarantula behavior and habitat requirements. An experienced keeper will know how to create the ideal environment for the tarantula, which can help reduce stress and encourage more natural behaviors. They will also be better prepared to recognize when the tarantula is feeling threatened or stressed, and how to react appropriately.
Conclusion
The temperament of the emerald skeleton tarantula is one of caution and defense. While not aggressively hostile, they are a species that values their privacy and will react defensively when they feel threatened. Understanding these behaviors and providing the right environment are key to keeping one of these tarantulas as a pet.
For those who are fascinated by tarantulas but are new to the hobby, it’s important to research other species that may be easier to manage and handle. However, for experienced tarantula enthusiasts, the emerald skeleton tarantula can be a rewarding and striking species to add to a collection—one that requires patience and respect.
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