🕷️ Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula Care Guide
Introduction
The Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula (Davus pentaloris) is a small, beautifully patterned species loved by enthusiasts for its metallic sheen and vivid orange “tiger” striping on the abdomen. Native to Guatemala and surrounding regions of Central America, this tarantula combines a manageable size with stunning appearance and lively behavior.
While it’s not typically aggressive, it can be fast and defensive, making it a great choice for keepers with some prior tarantula experience. Compact, hardy, and visually striking — the Guatemalan Tiger Rump is a true gem for any collection.
🌎 Natural Habitat
In the wild, Davus pentaloris inhabits tropical and subtropical forests with high humidity and moderate temperatures. These tarantulas often create burrows or retreats under rocks, roots, or leaf litter, where they can remain hidden during the day.
To recreate this environment in captivity, focus on providing a slightly humid, well-ventilated setup with room for burrowing.
🏡 Enclosure Setup
As a dwarf to medium-sized terrestrial species, the Guatemalan Tiger Rump doesn’t need a large enclosure. A container around 20 × 20 × 20 cm (8 × 8 × 8 in) is suitable for adults.
Setup tips:
- Substrate: 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) of slightly damp coco fibre or topsoil.
- Hide: Add a cork bark hide or half log.
- Decor: Include leaf litter, moss, and natural décor to mimic its native habitat.
- Water: Always provide a shallow water dish.
- Ventilation: Ensure good airflow to prevent stagnant humidity or mold.
This species enjoys webbing and may create intricate tunnels or surface retreats depending on the setup.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Keep the enclosure at 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) with humidity levels around 65–75 %. Mist lightly once or twice per week, allowing sections of the substrate to dry between mistings.
A well-balanced environment promotes healthy molting and reduces stress.
🍴 Feeding
The Guatemalan Tiger Rump is an enthusiastic feeder and readily takes down prey. Offer a variety of small live insects such as:
- Small crickets
- Mealworms
- Roach nymphs
Feed juveniles twice weekly and adults every 7–10 days. Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours to maintain enclosure hygiene.
⚖️ Growth & Molting
This species grows at a moderate rate, reaching maturity within 2–3 years. Before molting, you’ll notice reduced appetite and increased webbing activity — a clear sign to avoid feeding.
After a molt, wait 5–7 days before reintroducing food to allow the exoskeleton to harden properly.
⚠️ Temperament & Handling
Davus pentaloris tends to be skittish but not overly aggressive. It may dart into its burrow when disturbed but rarely displays defensive postures. However, due to its small size and speed, handling is not recommended. Observation through the enclosure is the best way to enjoy its natural behaviors.
This species is an excellent display tarantula once it settles in and begins webbing.
🧬 Lifespan & Size
- Adult Size: 3.5 – 4 inches (9 – 10 cm) leg span
- Lifespan: Females live up to 10 years, while males generally live 3–4 years
Their modest size and longevity make them a practical yet impressive species for enthusiasts with limited space.
🌿 Breeding Notes
Breeding Davus pentaloris is generally straightforward when conditions are right. Females are receptive post-molt and often produce egg sacs containing 100–150 spiderlings. The spiderlings are small but hardy and grow relatively quickly with proper feeding and humidity.
✅ Key Care Summary
| Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Davus pentaloris |
| Common Name | Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula |
| Origin | Guatemala & Central America |
| Category | New World, Terrestrial |
| Adult Size | 3.5 – 4 inches |
| Temperature | 22–26 °C (72–79 °F) |
| Humidity | 65–75 % |
| Temperament | Skittish / Moderate |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Handling | Not Recommended |
🔗 Related Care Guides
- Trinidad Dwarf Tiger Tarantula Care
- Asian Fawn Tarantula Care
- Brazilian Red Rump Tarantula Care
- Beginner Tarantulas Guide
🕸️ Final Thoughts
The Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula is a stunning, compact species that offers personality and color in equal measure. With its metallic hues, vibrant striping, and interesting web-building behavior, this tarantula makes a wonderful addition for keepers looking for something a little different.
Provide a humid, well-ventilated enclosure and avoid excessive handling — and you’ll enjoy one of the most charming dwarf species in the hobby.
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