Texas Tan Tarantula Care
Species: Aphonopelma anax
Common Names: Texas Tan Tarantula, Texas Giant Tan, South Texas Tarantula
The Texas Tan Tarantula (Aphonopelma anax) is a large, calm, and long-lived New World terrestrial species native to the southern United States, particularly southern Texas and parts of northern Mexico.
It’s known for its gentle temperament, robust size, and beautiful tan-brown coloration, giving it a warm, earthy look reminiscent of the desert landscapes it inhabits.
As with most Aphonopelma species, A. anax is an extremely hardy spider, capable of adapting to a wide range of conditions, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced keepers who appreciate North American natives.
Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Aphonopelma anax
- Common Names: Texas Tan, Texas Giant Tan, South Texas Tarantula
- Origin: Southern USA (Texas)
- Adult Size: 14–16 cm (5.5–6.5 inches) leg span
- Lifespan: Females 25–30 years; Males 7–10 years
- Temperament: Calm, docile, slow-moving
- Experience Level: Beginner
Appearance
The Texas Tan has a striking light brown to golden-tan carapace and darker chocolate-colored legs and abdomen. The subtle contrast between the lighter cephalothorax and darker body gives it an elegant, natural desert look.
It’s one of the largest Aphonopelma species, with mature females often exceeding 6 inches in leg span, and they’re impressively bulky for a North American terrestrial tarantula.
Housing & Enclosure
Aphonopelma anax is a terrestrial burrower, preferring deep, dry substrate and a warm, open setup.
Recommended enclosure sizes:
- Juveniles: 20 × 20 × 20 cm
- Adults: 30 × 30 × 30 cm or larger
Setup guidelines:
- Substrate depth: 10–15 cm for burrowing
- Provide a cork bark hide or half-log
- Include a shallow water dish
- Ensure good cross-ventilation
This species will often dig or modify its burrow to its liking, so give it space to settle and feel secure.
Substrate & Decoration
Recommended substrate:
- Dry topsoil, coco coir, or sand/topsoil mix
- Keep the substrate dry with one corner slightly damp if needed
Decorations can include:
- Cork bark or rocks for structure
- Sparse artificial plants
- Light desert-style décor for realism
A. anax doesn’t need humidity or dense foliage — think dry, semi-arid desert habitat.
Temperature & Humidity
- Temperature: 24–29°C (75–85°F)
- Humidity: 40–50%
This species thrives in warm, dry air with low humidity. Keep a small water dish filled at all times for hydration, but avoid misting the enclosure unless your local climate is extremely dry.
Feeding & Water
Aphonopelma anax is a slow but steady feeder, often taking prey calmly rather than chasing it down.
Feeding schedule:
- Slings: Every 5–7 days
- Juveniles: Every 7–10 days
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Diet:
- Crickets, dubia roaches, or locusts
- Mealworms or superworms as occasional treats
They can fast for long periods before a molt — this is completely normal behavior.
Behavior & Temperament
The Texas Tan is one of the most docile tarantulas in the Aphonopelma genus. It’s calm, deliberate in movement, and rarely shows defensive behavior.
Behavioral notes:
- Burrower by nature — may seal itself in for weeks
- Rarely flicks hairs
- Tends to freeze or slowly retreat when disturbed
It’s a fantastic choice for keepers who appreciate quiet observation over active display.
Handling
While A. anax can be safely handled with care, it’s best to minimize direct contact. Its heavy body means a short fall could cause injury.
If handling is desired, do so close to the ground, and allow the tarantula to move onto your hand at its own pace.
Molting
Like all Aphonopelma, this species grows slowly and molts infrequently, especially once mature.
Pre-molt signs:
- Fasting
- Lethargy
- Dull coloration
- Sealing off its burrow
Do not disturb during this phase, and wait two weeks after molting before feeding again.
Common Health Issues
- Over-humidity: Can cause respiratory or fungal issues
- Dehydration: Rare but possible — always provide a water source
- Falls: Avoid decor that encourages climbing
Otherwise, A. anax is extremely resilient and forgiving of small husbandry errors.
Breeding (Overview)
Breeding Aphonopelma anax is similar to other species in the genus:
- Mature males wander in late summer to autumn
- Introduce males carefully to receptive females
- Females produce egg sacs after 2–3 months, containing 200–500 spiderlings
The slings are hardy and slow-growing but easy to rear with patience.
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: Calm and minimal
Final Thoughts
The Texas Tan Tarantula (Aphonopelma anax) is a beautiful, hardy, and gentle spider that captures the essence of the North American desert species.
With its warm tan coloring, calm demeanor, and remarkable longevity, it’s a wonderful ambassador for the Aphonopelma genus. It’s ideal for keepers who value stability, natural behavior, and understated elegance over flashy colors or speed.
Whether you’re building a collection of native North American tarantulas or just starting your journey into the hobby, Aphonopelma anax is a must-have species that embodies everything great about The Tarantula Vault’s dedication to natural beauty and care excellence.
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Educational content for hobbyists. Visit thetarantulavault.com for more detailed tarantula profiles and care resources.