Vietnam Blue Tarantula

Vietnam Blue Tarantula Care

Species: Chilobrachys dyscolus
Common Name: Vietnam Blue Tarantula

The Vietnam Blue Tarantula (Chilobrachys dyscolus) is a captivating Old World fossorial species known for its brilliant metallic-blue coloration, impressive webbing behavior, and bold, fast temperament. Originating from the humid forests of Vietnam, this species showcases the classic traits of the Chilobrachys genus — speed, attitude, and an unrivaled ability to transform any enclosure into a silken fortress.

Though not a beginner tarantula, C. dyscolus is a favorite among experienced keepers who appreciate active webbers and the mysterious allure of a burrowing, nocturnal spider that occasionally graces the surface with flashes of blue brilliance.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific Name: Chilobrachys dyscolus
  • Common Name: Vietnam Blue Tarantula
  • Origin: Vietnam
  • Adult Size: 14–16 cm (5.5–6.5 inches) leg span
  • Lifespan: Females 10–12 years; Males 3–4 years
  • Temperament: Fast, defensive, highly web-active
  • Experience Level: Advanced

Housing & Enclosure

C. dyscolus is a fossorial (burrowing) species that prefers a deep, secure enclosure with ample substrate and a sense of safety. It rarely spends time in the open but constructs elaborate web tunnels and chambers underground.

Recommended enclosure sizes:

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

Setup tips:

  • Provide 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) of compactable substrate for burrowing
  • Include a starter burrow (a pre-dug hole or cork bark half-buried at an angle)
  • Ensure cross ventilation without sacrificing humidity
  • A secure lid is essential — this species is fast and can climb if startled

These tarantulas thrive when allowed to dig and construct their own underground systems.

Substrate & Decoration

Burrowing and webbing define this species. The substrate should be deep, firm, and slightly moist to support tunnel structures.

Recommended substrate:

  • Coco coir, peat moss, or topsoil, packed firmly
  • Add moss and leaf litter to maintain microclimate and texture

Decoration is secondary to substrate depth, but you can include:

  • A cork bark slab or tube to encourage digging beneath it
  • Low plants or artificial cover for surface aesthetics

Once settled, expect heavy webbing covering the entrance and surrounding area — it’s part of their natural security system.

Temperature & Humidity

  • Temperature: 25–28°C (77–82°F)
  • Humidity: 75–85%

Maintain humidity by keeping part of the substrate slightly moist — never wet. Mist one corner every few days, allowing the rest to dry naturally.

Provide a small water dish even if it’s often webbed over; the tarantula will still access moisture as needed. Good ventilation is crucial to prevent mold.

Feeding & Water

C. dyscolus is an eager and aggressive feeder, often striking prey with astonishing speed.

Feeding schedule:

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

Feed crickets, roaches, or locusts. Drop prey near the burrow entrance — this species prefers ambush hunting. Remove uneaten food within 24 hours.

Provide a fresh water source at all times and keep humidity consistent.

Handling & Temperament

Handling is strongly discouraged. Like most Old World tarantulas, C. dyscolus lacks urticating hairs and relies on speed and venom for defense. Its bite can cause severe localized pain, muscle spasms, and swelling.

Behavior-wise, it is:

  • Extremely fast and reactive
  • Highly defensive if cornered
  • Secretive, spending most time in its burrow

When performing maintenance, use long tongs, move slowly, and never underestimate its reflexes.

Molting

This species typically molts within its burrow, out of sight.

Signs of pre-molt:

  • Reduced activity
  • Refusal to feed
  • Sealing off its burrow entrance

Leave it completely undisturbed. After molting, wait at least a week before offering food to ensure proper hardening of the new exoskeleton.

Common Health Issues

  • Overly dry substrate: Can cause dehydration and molting issues
  • Poor ventilation: Encourages mold or mites
  • Disturbance stress: Frequent interference can cause defensive outbursts or injury

C. dyscolus is otherwise hardy and adaptable when left to establish naturally.

Breeding (Overview)

Breeding Chilobrachys species is challenging but rewarding.

  • Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure at night.
  • Ensure the female is well-fed; she can be aggressive.
  • After mating, the female may produce an egg sac within 8–10 weeks containing up to 200 spiderlings.

Spiderlings are voracious and grow quickly when well-fed.

Quick Care Checklist

  • Type: Fossorial
  • Enclosure: Deep (30×30×30 cm)
  • Substrate: Compact, moist coco coir (15–20 cm)
  • Temperature: 25–28°C
  • Humidity: 75–85%
  • Feeding: Crickets or roaches every 7–12 days
  • Handling: Not recommended — fast and defensive

Final Thoughts

The Vietnam Blue Tarantula (Chilobrachys dyscolus) is a thrilling ambassador for the Chilobrachys genus — a spider of unmatched energy, beauty, and complexity. Its combination of deep burrowing habits, intense webbing, and stunning blue tones make it a centerpiece in any serious tarantula collection.

While not a display species in the traditional sense, the glimpses you catch of this tarantula — flashes of sapphire legs framed by sheets of web — are unforgettable. For the experienced keeper who values natural behavior and architectural web design, C. dyscolus is an absolute gem of the underground world.

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