Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula (Citharacanthus cyaneus) – Live Tarantula for Sale

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula (Citharacanthus cyaneus) is a striking Caribbean tarantula admired for its vibrant coloration and bold personality. Native to Cuba, this terrestrial species displays a beautiful combination of orange leg coloration contrasted with deep violet tones across the body, creating a dramatic and colorful appearance.

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula belongs to the Citharacanthus genus, a group of tarantulas known for their robust build, energetic feeding response, and distinctive coloration. With its vivid colors and active behavior, Citharacanthus cyaneus is a fascinating species for hobbyists who enjoy unique Caribbean tarantulas.

Because of its quick movements and defensive temperament, the Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula is generally recommended for keepers with some experience maintaining tarantulas.

Species Overview

Scientific Name: Citharacanthus cyaneus
Common Name: Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula
Type: Terrestrial
Origin: Cuba
Adult Leg Span: 5–6 inches
Temperament: Defensive but manageable
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Lifespan: Females 12–15+ years, males shorter

Natural History

In the wild, Citharacanthus cyaneus inhabits tropical environments throughout Cuba where it constructs burrows beneath rocks, roots, and natural debris. These burrows provide protection from predators and help regulate temperature and humidity.

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula typically remains hidden within its retreat during the day and becomes more active at night when it emerges to hunt insects and other small prey moving across the forest floor.

The warm climate and moderate humidity of its natural habitat should be replicated in captivity for optimal health.

Appearance

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula is admired for its vivid coloration and strong contrast between body tones.

Typical characteristics include:

• bright orange leg coloration

• violet or purplish tones across the body

• darker facial or “masked” pattern on the carapace

• sturdy terrestrial body structure

After molting, the orange and violet coloration often appears especially vibrant.

Collectors interested in other Dwarf Species

• Trinidad Dwarf Tarantula (Cyriocosmus elegans)

• Brazilian Blue Dwarf Beauty Tarantula (Dolichothele diamantinensis)

• Brazilian Savannah Dwarf Tarantula (Guyruita cerrado)

• Pumpkin Patch Tarantula (Hapalopus sp. Colombian)

• Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula (Citharacanthus cyaneus)

Temperament

Citharacanthus cyaneus is known for having an alert and energetic temperament. When disturbed, the spider may retreat quickly into its hide or display defensive behavior.

Like other New World tarantulas, the Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula possesses urticating hairs which it may kick as a defensive mechanism if threatened.

Because of its active behavior and strong feeding response, this species is generally recommended for hobbyists with some tarantula experience.

Enclosure Setup

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula should be housed in a terrestrial enclosure that provides substrate depth and secure hiding places.

Recommended enclosure features include:

• several inches of substrate for burrowing

• cork bark hide or natural shelter

• moderate humidity

• good ventilation

• a shallow water dish

Providing adequate substrate allows the tarantula to construct shallow burrows similar to those found in its natural environment.

Feeding

Like most tarantulas, Citharacanthus cyaneus feeds primarily on insects such as crickets, roaches, and other appropriately sized feeder insects.

Juveniles may be fed once or twice per week, while adult specimens typically feed every 7–14 days depending on size.

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula often displays a strong feeding response and quickly captures prey introduced into its enclosure.

Molting and Growth

Tarantulas grow through a process known as molting, where they shed their old exoskeleton and emerge slightly larger.

Before molting, the spider may refuse food and become less active. After molting, the tarantula should be left undisturbed while its new exoskeleton and fangs harden.

Following molts, the vibrant orange and violet coloration of Citharacanthus cyaneus often becomes more pronounced.

Why Keep the Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula?

The Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula (Citharacanthus cyaneus) is popular among tarantula enthusiasts for several reasons:

• striking orange and violet coloration

• unique Caribbean tarantula species

• strong feeding response and active behavior

• hardy species that adapts well to captivity

For hobbyists seeking a colorful and energetic terrestrial tarantula, the Cuban Orange-Violet Masked Tarantula makes a fascinating addition to any tarantula collection.

Learn More About Tarantula Care

If you're new to keeping tarantulas, see our complete Tarantula Care Guide to learn about enclosure setup, feeding schedules, molting, and species selection.

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