New Mexico Tarantula Care

New Mexico Tarantula Care

Species: Aphonopelma marxi
Common Names: New Mexico Tarantula, Red-Striped Tarantula

The New Mexico Tarantula (Aphonopelma marxi) is a New World terrestrial tarantula native to the southwestern United States, found in New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and parts of Texas.

This species is easily recognized by its dark brown to black legs, velvety reddish abdomen hairs, and lightly bronzed carapace, giving it a subtle yet beautiful appearance that reflects the dry, rocky landscapes it calls home.

Like most Aphonopelma species, A. marxi is calm, slow-moving, and long-lived — making it an ideal choice for hobbyists who appreciate natural beauty and resilience over flashy colors or speed.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Aphonopelma marxi
  • Common Names: New Mexico Tarantula, Red-Striped Tarantula
  • Origin: Southwestern United States
  • Adult Size: 12–14 cm (4.5–5.5 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 25–30 years; Males 7–9 years
  • Temperament: Calm, reclusive, non-aggressive
  • Experience Level: Beginner

Appearance

Aphonopelma marxi is one of the more distinctive-looking North American species. It has:

  • Dark brown to black legs
  • A reddish-bronze abdomen covered in short, shimmering setae
  • A muted tan or bronze carapace

This gives it a rich, earthy look that perfectly blends into the dry, rocky terrain it inhabits. Males are often leggier and lighter in color than females.

Housing & Enclosure

A. marxi is a terrestrial burrower, thriving in dry, open setups with plenty of substrate for digging.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

  • Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 20 cm
  • Adults: 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches) or similar

Setup guidelines:

  • Substrate depth: 10–15 cm (4–6 inches) minimum
  • Provide a cork bark hide or starter burrow
  • Include a shallow water dish
  • Maintain excellent cross-ventilation

A. marxi will often create its own burrow and may spend long periods hidden, particularly during molting or seasonal temperature changes.

Substrate & Decoration

Recommended substrate:

  • Dry topsoil, coco fiber, or a sand/topsoil mix
  • Keep the substrate compact and dry

Decoration ideas:

  • Desert-style decor (rocks, bark, or dry branches)
  • Sparse artificial or natural plants for realism

Aim for a naturalistic, semi-arid appearance — simplicity suits this species well.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 24–29°C (75–85°F)
  • Humidity: 40–50%

Aphonopelma marxi prefers a dry environment typical of its native range. Provide a full water dish and avoid over-misting the enclosure.

If your local humidity is very low, lightly dampen one corner of the substrate every few weeks.

Feeding & Water

A. marxi is a steady but unhurried feeder that readily accepts most common prey items.

Feeding schedule:

  • Slings: Every 5–7 days
  • Juveniles: Every 7–10 days
  • Adults: Every 10–14 days

Diet:

  • Crickets, dubia roaches, locusts
  • Occasional mealworms or superworms

Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours, especially if your tarantula appears to be in pre-molt.

Behavior & Temperament

This species is calm and reclusive, spending much of its time in or near its burrow. While not overly defensive, it may flick urticating hairs if persistently disturbed.

Behavioral traits include:

  • Slow-moving and deliberate
  • Prefers solitude
  • Rarely defensive
  • Occasionally skittish during enclosure maintenance

It’s an excellent display species for natural setups and a patient keeper.

Handling

While A. marxi is docile and slow, it’s best to avoid frequent handling. Like all terrestrial tarantulas, it’s heavy-bodied and prone to injury from falls.

If you must handle, do so close to the ground, using calm, slow movements to minimize stress.

Molting

Like all Aphonopelma species, A. marxi grows slowly, particularly after reaching maturity.

Pre-molt indicators:

  • Decreased appetite or fasting
  • Dull coloration
  • Burrow sealing
  • Lethargy

Ensure it’s left completely undisturbed during this period. Wait two weeks post-molt before feeding again.

Common Health Issues

  • Over-humidity: Can lead to fungal or respiratory problems
  • Dehydration: Always provide fresh water
  • Falls or enclosure accidents: Avoid tall decorations

This species is very forgiving and thrives with stable, dry conditions.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding Aphonopelma marxi can be rewarding, though females are slow to mature.

  • Pair mature spiders in late summer or early autumn
  • Males are typically short-lived post-mating
  • Females may produce 200–400 eggs per sac after several months

Spiderlings are hardy but extremely slow-growing — typical of Aphonopelma.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Terrestrial burrower
  • Enclosure: 30 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Substrate: Dry topsoil or coco mix (10–15 cm)
  • Temperature: 24–29°C
  • Humidity: 40–50%
  • Feeding: Crickets/roaches every 10–14 days
  • Handling: Minimal

Final Thoughts

The New Mexico Tarantula (Aphonopelma marxi) perfectly embodies the rugged beauty of the American Southwest. With its reddish-brown hues, calm demeanor, and incredible resilience, it’s a must-have for enthusiasts who appreciate natural-looking, low-maintenance species.

While not flashy, A. marxi’s quiet elegance and impressive longevity make it one of the most rewarding long-term pets in the hobby — a true representative of the hardy North American Aphonopelma genus.

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