C. versicolor Care Guide
The Complete Guide to Caring for the Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula
Introduction
The Caribena versicolor, formerly classified as Avicularia versicolor, is commonly known as the Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula. It is a fan favorite in the tarantula hobby thanks to its incredible color transformation, docile nature, and arborial lifestyle. Native to the Caribbean island of Martinique, C. versicolor is ideal for intermediate keepers who are ready to explore arboreal species.
In this care guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about C. versicolor husbandry, including enclosure setup, feeding, humidity control, and molt care.
Species Overview
| Scientific Name: | Caribena versicolor |
|---|---|
| Common Name: | Antilles Pinktoe Tarantula |
| Type: | New World, Arboreal |
| Origin: | Martinique, Caribbean |
| Size: | 4.5 to 6 inches (11–15 cm) |
| Growth Rate: | Moderate to Fast |
| Lifespan: | Females: 9–12 years, Males: 2–3 years |
| Temperament: | Generally docile but fast and skittish |
| Venom: | Mild (New World species) |
Why Keep a C. versicolor?
- 🌈 Incredible Coloration: Slings start metallic blue, transitioning into emerald green, pink, and purple as adults
- 🌳 Arboreal Behavior: Builds beautiful silk retreats high in the enclosure
- 😌 Docile Temperament: Generally calm and less defensive than many Old World species
- 🕸️ Great Display Tarantula: Active and visible with elaborate web structures
Enclosure Setup
Enclosure Type
- Use a vertical enclosure with more height than floor space
- Ideal size for adults: 12x12x18 inches or equivalent
- For slings, ventilated deli cups or small acrylic arboreal containers are perfect
Ventilation
- C. versicolor is extremely sensitive to stagnant air
- Provide cross ventilation to reduce the risk of mold or respiratory infections
- Do not keep them in sealed or poorly-ventilated containers
Climbing Features
- Add cork bark tubes, vertical branches, and artificial plants
- Include plenty of anchor points for webbing
- Avoid overcrowding the enclosure with too much décor
Substrate
- Use a thin layer (1–2 inches) of coconut fiber or a similar moisture-retaining substrate
- Substrate helps maintain humidity but is not the main focus, since they rarely touch the ground
Temperature & Humidity
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Temperature | 75–82°F (24–28°C) |
| Humidity | 70–80% (with good ventilation) |
- Mist the sides of the enclosure 2–3 times per week
- Always allow part of the enclosure to dry out slightly before the next misting
- Provide a small water dish, even for juveniles if possible
Feeding Schedule
- Slings: Feed pinhead crickets or flightless fruit flies every 3–4 days
- Juveniles: Feed small crickets or roaches every 5–7 days
- Adults: Feed 1–2 appropriately sized prey items every 7–10 days
🕷️ Feeding Tip: C. versicolor has a strong feeding response. Drop prey near its web entrance for best results.
Behavior & Handling
- Generally calm and curious, but they are very fast and can leap great distances
- Best appreciated as a display pet; handling is discouraged
- Rarely defensive but may flee quickly if startled
Webbing Behavior
- Builds dense, intricate web tunnels near the top of the enclosure
- Expect increased webbing as they grow or prepare to molt
Molting & Growth
- Moderate to fast growth rate, especially when well-fed
- May refuse food for days or weeks before molting
- Will often seal itself inside a web retreat while in pre-molt
- Allow at least 7–10 days after a molt before feeding again
Common Problems & Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Mold Growth | Improve ventilation, reduce misting, spot clean regularly |
| Lethargy or Dehydration | Check temperature/humidity, add fresh water, and mist lightly |
| Refusal to Eat | Could be pre-molt or stress — give space and reduce handling |
| Falling from Height | Use soft substrate and decor to cushion falls if the tarantula slips |
Summary: Quick Care Checklist
✅ Enclosure: Tall, well-ventilated, with vertical structures
✅ Temperature: 75–82°F
✅ Humidity: 70–80%, never stagnant
✅ Feeding: 1–2 times per week depending on age
✅ Handling: Not recommended due to speed
✅ Experience Level: Intermediate and up
Final Thoughts
The Caribena versicolor is a crown jewel of any tarantula collection. With its striking looks, manageable care requirements, and unique arboreal habits, it offers both visual appeal and fascinating behaviors. While it requires more attention to humidity and ventilation than terrestrial species, it’s well worth the effort for dedicated keepers.
If you’re looking to branch into arboreal tarantulas, C. versicolor is a fantastic and rewarding choice.
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