Texas Brown Tarantula Care

Species: Aphonopelma hentzi
Common Names: Texas Brown, Oklahoma Brown, Missouri Tarantula

The Texas Brown Tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi) is a robust, slow-moving New World terrestrial species native to the southern United States, primarily Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, and surrounding areas.

This species has long been a staple of the tarantula hobby — often the first wild tarantula encountered by enthusiasts in North America. Its calm nature, adaptability, and endurance make it one of the most reliable and beginner-friendly tarantulas available.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Aphonopelma hentzi
  • Common Names: Texas Brown, Oklahoma Brown, Missouri Tarantula
  • Origin: Southern USA (Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Kansas)
  • Adult Size: 12–14 cm (5–5.5 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 25–30 years; Males 7–10 years
  • Temperament: Extremely docile
  • Experience Level: Beginner

Appearance

Aphonopelma hentzi has a rich chocolate-brown to copper coloration, often with subtle golden or tan highlights on the carapace and legs. While not as vividly colored as tropical species, its earthy tones perfectly suit its desert origins.

This understated beauty combined with its calm personality has made it one of the most recognizable and respected tarantulas in North America.

Housing & Enclosure

This species is a terrestrial burrower, often creating simple, shallow burrows or using natural crevices as retreats.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

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

Setup guidelines:

  • Deep, dry substrate (10–15 cm)
  • A cork bark or half-log hide
  • Clean water dish
  • Good ventilation

The enclosure should mimic its natural semi-arid environment — warm, dry, and open with minimal clutter.

Substrate & Decoration

Best substrate:

  • Dry topsoil or coco fiber
  • Optionally mix in a small amount of sand for firmness

Depth: 10–15 cm to allow natural digging.

Decoration ideas:

  • A few stones or cork bark pieces
  • Dried moss or artificial desert plants

Avoid overly humid setups — A. hentzi thrives in dry conditions.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 23–28°C (74–82°F)
  • Humidity: 40–50%

This species prefers a dry environment with a shallow water dish. Mist one corner lightly every few weeks if your home is very dry, but avoid damp substrate.

Good airflow is essential to prevent mold or bacterial growth.

Feeding & Water

Aphonopelma hentzi is a steady but moderate eater. It may fast for long periods, especially before molts, but typically resumes feeding without issue.

Feeding schedule:

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

Feed appropriately sized crickets, roaches, or locusts. Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours.

Always provide a clean water dish — hydration is essential, even in dry setups.

Behavior & Temperament

The Texas Brown is among the most docile and calm tarantulas in the hobby. It rarely flicks urticating hairs and almost never shows aggression.

Typical behavior:

  • Slow-moving and deliberate
  • Calmly retreats into its hide if disturbed
  • Occasionally seals itself in during molting

Because of its temperament, A. hentzi is often recommended as a first tarantula and a great educational ambassador species.

Handling

While handling is never risk-free, A. hentzi is one of the few species that tolerates gentle interaction.

When handled carefully and close to the ground, this tarantula remains calm and non-aggressive. Always avoid sudden movements or vibrations, as they can cause stress.

If the spider begins to flick hairs or move away, gently guide it back using a soft brush or cup method.

Molting

Molting occurs slowly, especially in older specimens.

Pre-molt signs:

  • Refuses food
  • Becomes sluggish
  • Abdomen darkens

Provide privacy during this time and wait at least two weeks after molting before feeding again.

Patience is key — females can go many months between molts once mature.

Common Health Issues

  • Excess humidity: Causes respiratory or fungal problems
  • Dehydration: Ensure constant access to clean water
  • Falls: Avoid climbing hazards; their heavy bodies are vulnerable

With proper setup, A. hentzi is nearly indestructible — one of the hardiest tarantulas you can keep.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding A. hentzi is relatively straightforward:

  • Mature males begin wandering in late summer to autumn
  • Introduce to the female’s enclosure carefully
  • Females produce an egg sac after 2–3 months with 200–400 spiderlings

Spiderlings are hardy and slow-growing, just like their parents.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Terrestrial burrower
  • Enclosure: 30 × 30 × 30 cm
  • Substrate: Dry soil or coco mix (10–15 cm)
  • Temperature: 23–28°C
  • Humidity: 40–50%
  • Feeding: Crickets/roaches every 10–14 days
  • Handling: Gentle and minimal

Final Thoughts

The Texas Brown Tarantula (Aphonopelma hentzi) is an American classic — resilient, calm, and endlessly patient.

It may lack the bright colors of South American species, but it makes up for it with its incredible hardiness, docility, and charmingly earthy beauty. For keepers seeking a reliable, long-lived pet or those new to tarantulas, A. hentzi is one of the best introductions possible.

Whether displayed in a naturalistic setup or used for education, this species embodies the spirit of North American tarantulas — humble, enduring, and quietly magnificent.

© The Tarantula Vault
Educational content only. Visit thetarantulavault.com for more expert care sheets, guides, and tarantula profiles.