Purple Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia purpurea)

Tarantulas for sale at The Defiant Forest include some of the most beautiful arboreal species in the hobby, and the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia purpurea) is among the most stunning. Known for its deep velvety purple coloration and elegant arboreal form, this striking tarantula is highly prized by collectors and hobbyists alike.

Native to South America, the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula belongs to the Avicularia genus, a group of arboreal tarantulas famous for their tree-dwelling behavior, distinctive pink toe pads, and calm temperament. Under the right lighting, Avicularia purpurea displays a rich purple sheen across its body and legs, giving it a truly spectacular appearance.

Because of its beautiful coloration and relatively manageable nature, the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula is a popular species for keepers who enjoy arboreal tarantulas.

Species Overview

Scientific Name: Avicularia purpurea
Common Name: Purple Pink Toe Tarantula
Type: Arboreal
Origin: South America
Adult Leg Span: 4.5–5.5 inches
Temperament: Generally calm but quick
Growth Rate: Moderate
Lifespan: Females 10–12+ years, males shorter

Natural History

In the wild, Avicularia purpurea inhabits tropical forest regions where it lives high in trees, shrubs, and dense vegetation. These arboreal tarantulas construct silk retreats among branches, leaves, and tree hollows where they remain hidden during the day.

The Purple Pink Toe Tarantula typically becomes active at night, emerging from its retreat to hunt insects and other small prey moving through the forest canopy.

Warm temperatures and moderate humidity similar to its natural habitat help maintain healthy captive conditions for this species.

Appearance

The Purple Pink Toe Tarantula is admired for its rich coloration and elegant arboreal build.

Typical characteristics include:

• deep purple iridescent body coloration

• distinctive pink toe pads used for climbing

• long slender legs adapted for arboreal movement

• soft velvety hair covering the body

After molting, the purple coloration often becomes especially vibrant.

Temperament

Avicularia purpurea is typically calm and manageable, though it can move quickly when startled. When disturbed, the spider usually retreats into its webbed hide rather than displaying aggressive behavior.

Like other New World tarantulas, the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula possesses urticating hairs, though they are rarely used compared to terrestrial species.

Because of its relatively calm temperament and fascinating arboreal behavior, this species is enjoyable for both intermediate and experienced hobbyists.

Enclosure Setup

As an arboreal species, the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula requires a vertically oriented enclosure.

Recommended enclosure features include:

• tall enclosure with vertical space

• cork bark or branches for climbing

• moderate humidity

• excellent ventilation

• anchor points for webbing

• a shallow water dish

Good airflow is especially important for Avicularia species.

Feeding

Like most tarantulas, Avicularia purpurea feeds on insects such as:

• crickets

• roaches

• other appropriately sized feeder insects

Juveniles may be fed once or twice per week, while adult specimens typically feed every 7–10 days depending on size.

The Purple Pink Toe Tarantula often captures prey from its webbed retreat.

Molting and Growth

Tarantulas grow through molting, shedding their old exoskeleton as they increase in size.

Before molting, the spider may refuse food and remain hidden inside its webbed retreat. After molting, the tarantula should be left undisturbed while its new exoskeleton and fangs harden.

As Avicularia purpurea matures, the purple coloration often becomes more pronounced.

Why Keep the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula?

The Purple Pink Toe Tarantula (Avicularia purpurea) is highly valued among tarantula enthusiasts for several reasons:

• stunning purple iridescent coloration

• fascinating arboreal lifestyle

• elegant climbing behavior

• beautiful and unusual tarantula species

For hobbyists seeking a colorful and visually impressive arboreal tarantula, the Purple Pink Toe Tarantula is a spectacular addition to any tarantula collection.

Learn More About Tarantula Care

If you're new to keeping tarantulas, visit our Tarantula Care Guide to learn about enclosure setup, feeding schedules, molting, and choosing the right species.

You can also browse our full collection of Tarantulas for Sale to explore dozens of fascinating species available at The Defiant Forest.