Brazilian Jewel Tarantula, Typhochlaena seladonia
Arboreal Trap Door Species, max. adult size 2"-2.5"
This stunning new world tarantula is an arboreal trapdoor species and is indigenous to the Brazilian rainforest, Bahia, and Sergipe. Adult size is 2 to 2.5”
A docile species, from time to time we noticed some individuals are defensive.
A tall arboreal setup is preferred. Cross ventilation is very important with this species. Utilize pieces of cork bark that have pits and crevices for them to build their trap door. TDF offers a Trap Door Kit - Trap door premix, cork bark with cubby pits & bottle enclosure. Its an accessory when adding your selection to your cart.
They will want to build their doors at the top of the enclosure, set the cork up close to the lid. Utilize moss dust and finely crushed leaf litter so your Brazilian Jewel Tarantula can use it to build their trap door. Once the trapdoor is made the Brazilian Jewel Tarantula can sometimes be difficult to find. They have evolved to blend in seamlessly. Keep the substrate lightly damp, and the crushed leaf and moss litter on top dryer. Using distilled or bottled water lightly mist the sides of the enclosure for them to drink, let some water drip down the sides to the substrate for humidity.
Feeding Brazilian Jewel Tarantulas
They can be picky feeders and can go some time without feeding. Tong feeding this species is a good technique to employ. Use a Q-tip to lift the trap door then take an appropriate sized feeder, pinched in a way where it is still wiggling but will not get loose on you, and hold it up to the tarantula. They sometimes need to be provoked to realize that what has entered the door is food. If they are hungry, they will take it into the door. If they refuse to let their door open no matter how hard you try they are likely not wanting to eat. If they still do not want to eat, you can always try a variety of food. They may not like the food you are providing.
This amazing rainforest species is found in the rainforests of Brazil, living in trapdoors in cracks or holes in the bark of trees. They collect pieces of leaves, bark, and other available materials to camouflage their doors. When prey walks across or near their door, they ambush the meal! They are also fast, always keep a catch cup on hand when feeding these guys. They do possess urticating hairs but are not quick to utilize them.
Among the diverse species of tarantulas found in the world, Typhochlaena seladonia stands out as one of the most visually stunning. Commonly referred to as the Brazilian Jewel Tarantula, this small yet captivating arachnid has gained popularity among researchers and exotic pet enthusiasts alike. Native to the lush rainforests of Brazil, it showcases iridescent colors, unique behaviors, and ecological significance. Despite its beauty, the species faces conservation challenges due to habitat loss and illegal trade.
This essay explores the physical characteristics, habitat, behavior, ecological role, and conservation status of Typhochlaena seladonia while emphasizing its importance in the ecosystems it inhabits.
Physical Characteristics
Typhochlaena seladonia is renowned for its extraordinary appearance. It belongs to the family Theraphosidae and is one of the smallest species of tarantulas. Adult specimens typically measure between 3 to 4 centimeters in leg span, making it notably petite compared to other tarantulas. Its exoskeleton is adorned with striking iridescent hues, ranging from emerald green to metallic gold. The most distinctive feature is the pattern on its carapace, which resembles a flower or intricate mandala, earning it the nickname “jewel tarantula.”
The legs and abdomen of the tarantula are marked by contrasting black and vibrant yellow stripes, further enhancing its visual appeal. These colors are not merely decorative; they may serve as a deterrent to predators by signaling toxicity or unpalatability, a common survival strategy in the animal kingdom.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural range of Typhochlaena seladonia is limited to the Atlantic Forest biome in northeastern Brazil. This region is known for its high biodiversity and dense, humid vegetation. The tarantula thrives in arboreal habitats, where it constructs silk retreats in tree bark crevices, hollow trunks, and bromeliads.
The Atlantic Forest, or Mata Atlântica, is a biodiversity hotspot that harbors a wide array of plant and animal species. However, it is also one of the most threatened ecosystems on the planet, with only a fraction of its original area remaining intact. This habitat specificity makes Typhochlaena seladonia particularly vulnerable to environmental disturbances such as deforestation and land-use changes.
Behavior and Ecology
Unlike many ground-dwelling tarantulas, Typhochlaena seladonia is an arboreal species, meaning it spends the majority of its life in trees. Its behavior is highly specialized to this lifestyle. Using its silk, the tarantula creates tubular retreats that serve as shelter and hunting platforms. The silk is exceptionally strong and sticky, allowing the spider to anchor its home securely to tree bark or foliage.
This species is a sit-and-wait predator, relying on stealth and speed to capture prey. It feeds primarily on small insects, such as crickets and moths, which it ambushes near its silk retreat. Despite its small size, Typhochlaena seladonia exhibits remarkable agility, allowing it to navigate the complex structures of its arboreal environment.
Another fascinating behavior is its method of conserving moisture. The Atlantic Forest is a humid environment, but periods of dryness can occur. Typhochlaena seladonia minimizes water loss by retreating into its silk-lined burrow during unfavorable conditions, demonstrating an adaptation to its fluctuating habitat.
Ecological Role
As a predator, Typhochlaena seladonia plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations within its ecosystem. By preying on herbivorous insects, it indirectly contributes to maintaining the health of the forest vegetation. This predator-prey relationship is vital for sustaining the balance of the forest's intricate food web.
Additionally, the silk retreats constructed by the tarantula provide microhabitats for other small organisms, such as mites and springtails, which may find shelter or food within these structures. This highlights the tarantula’s indirect contribution to biodiversity at the micro-level.
Reproduction and Life Cycle
The reproductive behavior of Typhochlaena seladonia is consistent with other tarantulas, though its arboreal nature adds unique elements to its life cycle. Males reach sexual maturity faster than females, typically within one year, while females may take up to two years. Once mature, males leave their retreats to search for mates, a perilous journey given their small size and the abundance of predators.
Courtship involves intricate displays, with the male tapping and vibrating his legs to signal his presence to a receptive female. If successful, the female lays eggs in a silk sac, which she guards diligently. The eggs hatch into spiderlings after several weeks, and the juveniles remain in the vicinity of their mother’s retreat for a short period before dispersing.
The lifespan of Typhochlaena seladonia varies, with females living up to 10 years in captivity, while males often die shortly after mating due to exhaustion or predation.
Conservation Status
Despite its captivating beauty, Typhochlaena seladonia faces significant conservation challenges. Habitat loss is the primary threat to its survival. The Atlantic Forest has been heavily deforested for agriculture, urbanization, and logging, resulting in fragmented habitats that limit the tarantula’s range and genetic diversity.
Additionally, Typhochlaena seladonia is a target of illegal wildlife trade. Its striking appearance makes it highly sought after by exotic pet collectors, and poaching has contributed to declines in wild populations. The species is listed under Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), which regulates but does not ban its trade.
Efforts to protect Typhochlaena seladonia must focus on habitat preservation and stricter enforcement of wildlife trade regulations. Initiatives such as reforestation and the establishment of protected areas within the Atlantic Forest can provide critical support for this species and others that share its habitat.
Captive Care and Ethical Considerations
The beauty of Typhochlaena seladonia has made it a popular choice among tarantula enthusiasts, but keeping this species in captivity comes with ethical and ecological considerations. Captive breeding programs are essential to reduce the demand for wild-caught specimens and to support conservation efforts.
Providing suitable habitats in captivity requires replicating its natural arboreal environment. Enclosures should include vertical space, cork bark for retreats, and proper humidity levels. Feeding should mimic its diet in the wild, consisting of small insects.
However, the ethical implications of keeping a rare species as a pet cannot be overlooked. Prospective keepers must ensure they acquire specimens from reputable, licensed breeders rather than contributing to the illegal wildlife trade.
Conclusion
Typhochlaena seladonia is more than just a beautiful tarantula; it is a vital component of its ecosystem and a symbol of the natural wonders of the Atlantic Forest. Its iridescent colors and unique behaviors captivate the imagination, but they also remind us of the fragility of biodiversity in a changing world.
Protecting Typhochlaena seladonia requires a holistic approach that addresses habitat conservation, sustainable trade practices, and public awareness. By valuing and safeguarding this jewel of the forest, we contribute not only to its survival but to the preservation of the intricate web of life it inhabits.
