Entre Rios Tarantula Care
Species: Grammostola iheringi
Common Names: Entre Rios Tarantula, Brazilian Blue Dwarf Tarantula
The Entre Rios Tarantula (Grammostola iheringi) is an Old World–style New World tarantula — meaning it has all the beauty and presence of its New World relatives, but with a much more assertive attitude.
Native to southern Brazil and parts of Uruguay, this terrestrial species is a medium-to-large-sized tarantula, known for its iridescent blue sheen, reddish abdomen hairs, and surprisingly active, inquisitive behavior. It’s one of the most visually stunning members of the Grammostola genus, but also one of the least suitable for beginners due to its defensive nature.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Grammostola iheringi
- Common Name: Entre Rios Tarantula
- Origin: Southern Brazil, Uruguay, and northern Argentina
- Type: Terrestrial (active, semi-burrowing)
- Adult Size: 14–17 cm (5.5–7 inches)
- Lifespan: Females 20+ years; Males 5–6 years
- Temperament: Defensive, active, fast-moving
- Experience Level: Intermediate to advanced
Appearance
This is a visually striking species even among Grammostola:
- Carapace: Metallic gray to deep blue depending on lighting
- Legs: Black-blue with reflective hairs and light banding
- Abdomen: Covered in reddish to copper-colored hairs
In natural light, the colors can shift from dark gray to electric blue, making it one of the most photogenic tarantulas in the genus.
Habitat & Enclosure Setup
G. iheringi thrives in a semi-arid terrestrial setup that provides both open space for roaming and a hide for security. Unlike many Grammostola species, it is often seen active and above ground, exploring or rearranging substrate.
Recommended enclosure sizes:
- Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 20 cm
- Adults: 40 × 30 × 30 cm (16 × 12 × 12 inches)
Setup essentials:
- Substrate: 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) of coco fiber, topsoil, or a soil/sand mix
- Include a cork bark hide or starter burrow
- Add a shallow water dish
- Provide good airflow
Avoid damp conditions — G. iheringi prefers dry substrate with a water dish for hydration.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 22–27°C (72–81°F)
- Humidity: 55–65%
Maintain slightly higher humidity than other Grammostola species, but never wet substrate. Light misting once every few weeks is fine if needed, ensuring it dries quickly.
Behavior & Temperament
This is not your typical docile Grammostola. G. iheringi is alert, fast, and willing to stand its ground. While not particularly aggressive, it is defensive and quick to assume a threat posture if disturbed.
Behavior traits include:
- Highly active — often visible, roaming, or digging
- Defensive if startled, may flick hairs or rear up
- Not suitable for handling due to speed and unpredictability
Despite its attitude, it’s a fascinating species to observe, with more personality and movement than most Grammostola.
Feeding
G. iheringi is a voracious eater.
Feeding schedule:
- Slings: Every 5–7 days
- Juveniles: Every 7–10 days
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Feed a varied diet of:
- Crickets
- Roaches
- Locusts
- Mealworms or superworms (occasionally)
Adults will sometimes go off food before a molt, but fasting is less common than in G. rosea.
Handling
Due to its speed and defensiveness, handling is not recommended.
It’s best admired through the enclosure glass — this is a species meant to be observed, not held.
If enclosure maintenance is needed, use long tools and move slowly to avoid startling it.
Molting
Molting frequency depends on growth stage:
- Slings: Every few months
- Juveniles: 2–3 times a year
- Adults: Once every year or two
Signs of pre-molt include:
- Dull coloration
- Refusal to eat
- Increased reclusiveness
Allow 10–14 days after molting before feeding again.
Common Health Issues
This species is robust and hardy, provided the humidity isn’t excessive.
Keep an eye out for:
- Overly damp substrate → can cause stress or mold
- Dehydration → ensure constant access to clean water
- Falls → avoid excessive enclosure height
Breeding (Overview)
G. iheringi is occasionally bred in captivity but not as often as its more docile relatives.
- Mature males can be tricky to pair due to the female’s aggression
- Egg sacs typically contain 100–200 spiderlings
- Spiderlings grow at a moderate pace and are easy to raise
Due to its limited availability and beautiful appearance, captive-bred specimens are prized among collectors.
Quick Care Summary
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|---|
| Enclosure Type | Terrestrial |
| Temperature | 22–27°C (72–81°F) |
| Humidity | 55–65% |
| Substrate | Dry topsoil/coco mix |
| Feeding | Every 10–14 days |
| Temperament | Defensive, fast |
| Handling | Not recommended |
Final Thoughts
The Entre Rios Tarantula (Grammostola iheringi) is a jewel in the Grammostola genus — beautiful, bold, and active. While not as gentle as its cousins, its shimmering blue tones and visible behavior make it one of the most rewarding species to observe.
This tarantula is best suited for intermediate keepers who appreciate energy, attitude, and elegance in one eight-legged package.
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