Purple Pinktoe Tarantula

Purple Pinktoe Tarantula Care

Species: Avicularia purpurea
Common Name: Purple Pinktoe Tarantula

The Purple Pinktoe Tarantula (Avicularia purpurea) is one of the most striking arboreal tarantulas in the hobby. Native to Ecuador, this species is admired for its deep, iridescent purple sheen that glows under light — making it one of the most beautiful tarantulas in existence.

Calm, active, and graceful, A. purpurea embodies everything that makes Avicularia species special: vibrant coloration, unique webbing habits, and a gentle temperament. It’s a perfect choice for intermediate keepers seeking an eye-catching arboreal display spider.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Avicularia purpurea
  • Common Name: Purple Pinktoe Tarantula
  • Origin: Ecuador (humid lowland and cloud forests)
  • Adult Size: 11–14 cm (4.5–5.5 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 10–12 years; Males 3–4 years
  • Temperament: Calm but fast when startled
  • Experience Level: Intermediate

Housing & Enclosure

A. purpurea is a true arboreal species that prefers elevated spaces with ample cover. It spends much of its time constructing dense silk tunnels among branches and leaves.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

  • Juveniles: 20×20×25 cm
  • Adults: 30×30×45 cm (12×12×18 inches)

A vertical enclosure is essential. Strong cross ventilation is the single most important factor — poor airflow can cause health issues, especially in humid conditions.

Provide cork bark tubes, branches, and artificial or live plants for climbing and web anchoring. Expect the tarantula to web heavily in the upper half of the enclosure.

Substrate & Decoration

Although arboreal, A. purpurea benefits from a moist substrate base to maintain proper humidity.

Recommended substrate:

  • 5–8 cm of coco coir, peat moss, or organic topsoil

Add moss, cork bark, and plant cover to simulate a natural canopy environment. A visually dense enclosure helps the tarantula feel secure and encourages confident activity.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F)
  • Humidity: 70–80%

Maintain consistent humidity with light misting every 2–3 days, targeting the webbing and sides of the enclosure.

Always ensure excellent airflow — this species thrives when humidity and ventilation are balanced. A small water dish should always be present at the base of the enclosure.

Feeding & Water

A. purpurea is a consistent and calm feeder. Offer a variety of appropriately sized live prey such as crickets, roaches, or mealworms.

Feeding schedule:

  • Slings: Every 4–5 days
  • Juveniles: Every 7 days
  • Adults: Every 10–12 days

Feed in the evening for best feeding response. Remove uneaten prey within 24 hours. Regular light misting provides drinking opportunities, as this species often drinks droplets from its webbing.

Handling & Temperament

The Purple Pinktoe is known for its docile yet skittish nature. It rarely shows aggression, preferring to jump or run when disturbed.

Handling should be kept minimal — these spiders are delicate and can jump unpredictably. If you do handle, do so gently and close to the ground.

During maintenance, use slow movements, soft brushes, and catch cups as needed.

Molting

Molting occurs inside the spider’s web retreat, where it will seal itself in for protection.

Signs of pre-molt:

  • Faded coloration
  • Refusal of food
  • Web sealing or retraction

Do not disturb during this time. After molting, allow 5–7 days before resuming feeding to avoid injury to the soft exoskeleton.

Common Health Issues

  • Poor ventilation: Leading cause of stress and health decline — ensure airflow.
  • Dehydration: Maintain light humidity and always provide water.
  • Mold or mildew: Avoid over-misting; balance humidity carefully.
  • Falls: Prevent by providing adequate climbing surfaces and soft substrate.

When kept in proper conditions, A. purpurea is hardy and rewarding.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding A. purpurea can be challenging but rewarding.

  • Introduce the male at night and supervise closely.
  • Females are usually calm but can be unpredictable post-mating.
  • The female typically produces an egg sac within 10–12 weeks containing 80–120 spiderlings.

Spiderlings are delicate but hardy when kept warm and humid.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Arboreal
  • Enclosure: Vertical (30×30×45 cm) with strong airflow
  • Substrate: Slightly moist coco coir or peat moss (5–8 cm)
  • Temperature: 24–28°C
  • Humidity: 70–80%
  • Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
  • Handling: Calm but fast — minimal handling recommended

Final Thoughts

The Purple Pinktoe Tarantula (Avicularia purpurea) is a masterpiece of color and elegance. Its rich violet tones, gentle nature, and graceful movements make it a centerpiece species for any arboreal collection.

With proper ventilation, humidity, and environmental structure, this tarantula thrives and displays all the beauty that makes Avicularia one of the most beloved genera in the hobby.

For keepers who appreciate the calm charm of A. avicularia but desire a deeper, more radiant coloration, A. purpurea is an unforgettable choice.

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All information provided is for educational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary care.
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