Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula Care Guide
(Grammostola pulchripes)
Common names: Chaco Golden Knee, Golden Knee Tarantula
Overview
The Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula (Grammostola pulchripes) is one of the most impressive and beginner-friendly tarantulas in the hobby. Known for its large size, striking golden leg stripes, and calm demeanor, this species is ideal for both novice and experienced keepers.
- Type: New World terrestrial
- Origin: Paraguay and Argentina
- Adult size: 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) leg span
- Lifespan: Females up to 20+ years; males 5–6 years
- Temperament: Docile, tolerant, and rarely defensive
- Growth rate: Moderate to fast for a Grammostola species
Appearance
The Chaco Golden Knee is a large and robust tarantula, featuring:
- Distinct golden-yellow stripes on the knees (femur-patella joints)
- A deep brown to black body with a slightly iridescent sheen
- Thick, velvety legs and a wide carapace
- Sexual dimorphism visible in mature males (longer legs, tibial hooks)
This species is highly photogenic and makes an excellent display tarantula.
Enclosure & Habitat Setup
Enclosure Type:
Terrestrial setup with more floor space than height. This species may wander more than others, so give it room.
Enclosure Size:
- Juveniles: 15 x 15 x 15 cm (6” x 6” x 6”) minimum
- Adults: 30–45 cm wide x 30 cm deep x 20–30 cm tall (12–18″ x 12″ x 8–12″)
Substrate:
Use 10–15 cm (4–6”) of loose, slightly moist substrate such as:
- Coconut fiber
- Peat moss
- Organic topsoil (no fertilizer)
Hides & Decor:
- Provide a cork bark hide, half log, or other shelter
- Include leaf litter or silk plants for aesthetics and comfort
- While not heavy webbers, they may construct light webs near their hide
Water:
Always provide a shallow water dish. Keep it clean and full.
Ventilation:
Good cross-ventilation is important to prevent mold buildup.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 21–26°C (70–79°F)
- Humidity: Moderate, around 60–70%
- Allow the top layer of substrate to dry out between light mistings
- Never keep the enclosure wet — dampness is fine at deeper substrate levels
Tip: Use a hygrometer and thermometer to monitor enclosure conditions.
Feeding & Diet
Diet:
Feed a variety of gut-loaded live insects:
- Crickets
- Dubia roaches
- Mealworms or superworms (as treats)
Feeding Schedule:
- Slings: Every 3–4 days
- Juveniles: Every 5–7 days
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Feed prey smaller than the tarantula’s abdomen. Remove uneaten food after 24 hours.
Post-Molt Feeding:
Wait until fangs harden (black in color) before resuming feeding — 2–3 days for slings, up to a week or more for adults.
Molting & Growth
Pre-Molt Signs:
- Refusing food
- Dull or darker coloration
- Lethargy or hiding more often
- Webbing over their hide or enclosure floor
During Molt:
- Tarantula may flip onto its back — this is normal
- Do not disturb or feed during this time
After Molt:
- Allow time for the exoskeleton and fangs to harden
- Reintroduce feeding gradually
The Chaco Golden Knee grows relatively fast and can reach adult size in 3–5 years under good conditions.
Temperament & Behavior
This species is known for its calm and non-aggressive temperament.
- Rarely flicks urticating hairs
- Generally tolerant of enclosure maintenance
- Can be skittish when young, but calms with age
- Not prone to threat postures or biting
Handling:
While they are handleable due to their docile nature, handling is not recommended unless necessary — as falls can result in fatal injuries.
Cleaning & Maintenance
- Daily: Check water, remove uneaten food
- Weekly: Spot clean waste and mold if present
- Monthly: Check humidity and substrate condition
- Every 6–12 months: Full substrate change if needed
Use tongs or soft tools to avoid disturbing the tarantula unnecessarily.
Breeding (Advanced Keepers)
- Mature males develop tibial hooks and emboli
- Introduce carefully after ensuring the female is well-fed
- Females can produce sacs of 500–800 eggs
- Spiderlings grow steadily and are relatively hardy
Breeding should only be attempted with prior experience, as male mortality is common and egg sac care requires knowledge.
Summary — Quick Care Sheet
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Grammostola pulchripes |
| Common Name | Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula |
| Type | New World terrestrial |
| Origin | Paraguay, Argentina |
| Size | 7–8 inches (leg span) |
| Lifespan | Females: 20+ years; Males: 5–6 years |
| Temperament | Docile, calm, slow-moving |
| Ideal For | Beginners and display collections |
| Substrate Depth | 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) |
| Humidity | 60–70% |
| Temperature | 21–26°C (70–79°F) |
| Feeding | Crickets, roaches, mealworms |
| Enclosure | Horizontal, well-ventilated, with a hide |
Why Choose a Chaco Golden Knee Tarantula?
- Perfect for beginners and educational displays
- Striking golden appearance with a calm personality
- Long-lived and relatively easy to care for
- Low-maintenance with a rewarding presence