Cobalt Blue Tarantula Care
Species: Cyriopagopus lividus
Common Name: Cobalt Blue Tarantula
The Cyriopagopus lividus, commonly known as the Cobalt Blue Tarantula, is one of the most striking tarantulas in the hobby — famous for its vibrant, metallic-blue legs and secretive burrowing lifestyle. This Old World species is beautiful but defensive, and should only be kept by experienced enthusiasts who understand its speed and temperament.
Native to the tropical forests of Myanmar and Thailand, the Cobalt Blue thrives in humid, warm environments where it spends most of its time in deep burrows. In captivity, replicating this environment is key to its health and longevity.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Cyriopagopus lividus
- Common Name: Cobalt Blue Tarantula
- Origin: Myanmar, Thailand
- Adult Size: 13–15 cm (5–6 inches) leg span
- Lifespan: Females 10–15 years; Males 3–4 years
- Temperament: Highly defensive, fast, reclusive
- Experience Level: Advanced keepers only
Housing & Enclosure
The Cobalt Blue is a fossorial species, meaning it prefers to dig and live in deep burrows. The enclosure should prioritize floor space and deep substrate depth to accommodate its natural behavior.
Recommended enclosure sizes:
- Juveniles: 10–15 cm tall enclosure with at least 10 cm substrate
- Sub-adults: 20–25 cm tall enclosure with 15 cm substrate
- Adults: 30×30×30 cm (or larger) enclosure with 20–25 cm of substrate
A secure lid and good cross-ventilation are essential. Provide a starter burrow (such as a hole near a hide) to encourage digging. This species rarely leaves its burrow except at night or for feeding.
Substrate & Decoration
A deep, moisture-retentive substrate mix is crucial — 70% coco coir and 30% organic topsoil works well. The substrate should be slightly moist (never waterlogged) to help maintain humidity.
Add natural decorations like leaf litter, cork bark, and moss to provide cover and humidity control. A hide such as a piece of cork bark angled against the side can help the spider start its burrow.
Because this species spends most of its time underground, elaborate decorations are unnecessary — focus on stability and humidity balance.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)
- Humidity: 75–85%
Mist one side of the enclosure lightly every few days and ensure good ventilation. Stale, overly damp air can lead to mold and stress.
Always keep a small, shallow water dish available, even though the spider may rarely be seen drinking.
Feeding & Water
Feed a variety of live insects such as crickets, roaches, and mealworms. The Cobalt Blue is a powerful hunter and will often ambush prey from its burrow.
Feeding schedule:
- Slings: Every 4–5 days
- Juveniles: Every 7 days
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours. Although this species may not eat in view, it will often take prey left near the entrance of its burrow.
Handling & Temperament
Handling is strongly discouraged. The Cobalt Blue Tarantula is highly defensive and extremely fast. Its venom is more potent than most New World species and can cause severe localized pain and muscle cramps.
Use long tools or catch cups when performing enclosure maintenance. Move slowly and avoid vibrations that could startle the spider — a startled Cobalt Blue will retreat instantly or strike defensively.
Tip: If you need to move your tarantula, use a tall container and gently encourage it inside using a soft paintbrush or long tool.
Molting
Molting is a delicate time for this species. Since they molt inside their burrow, you may not see the process occur. It’s normal for them to seal themselves in for several days or even weeks.
Signs of an upcoming molt:
- Refusal to eat
- Sealed burrow entrance
- Dull coloration
Do not attempt to dig up or disturb the spider. Maintain humidity and allow it to reopen the burrow when ready. Wait at least a week after reappearance before feeding again.
Common Health Issues
- Dehydration: Ensure humidity stays within range and provide fresh water.
- Mold: Improve ventilation and spot-clean affected substrate.
- Stress: Too little substrate or excessive disturbance will cause agitation and defensive behavior.
- Injury: Avoid falls or top-heavy decorations — they can injure this heavy-bodied species.
Breeding (Overview)
Breeding Cyriopagopus lividus can be challenging due to the species’ aggression and secrecy. Both individuals must be mature and well-fed.
- Introduce the male carefully into the female’s enclosure at night.
- Supervise closely — females can attack or kill males quickly.
- If successful, females may produce an egg sac within several weeks to months.
Due to their speed and defensiveness, this process should only be attempted by highly experienced keepers.
Quick Care Checklist
- Type: Fossorial (burrowing)
- Enclosure: Deep terrestrial setup with at least 20 cm substrate
- Substrate: Coco coir/topsoil mix kept slightly moist
- Temperature: 25–28°C
- Humidity: 75–85%
- Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–14 days
- Handling: Avoid — very defensive species
Final Thoughts
The Cobalt Blue Tarantula is one of the most visually stunning spiders available in the hobby, with its vivid sapphire-blue sheen and elusive nature. However, its defensive temperament and speed make it a species best appreciated from a distance.
For experienced keepers who can provide deep substrate, consistent humidity, and a stress-free environment, the Cobalt Blue is a breathtaking addition to any serious collection.
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All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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