Mexican Jade Fuego Tarantula

Aphonopelma mooreae Care Guide

Mexican Jade Fuego Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Aphonopelma mooreae, commonly referred to as the Mexican Jade Fuego Tarantula, is a New World terrestrial species native to Mexico, particularly in the region of Jalisco. This species is relatively rare in the hobby but is prized for its striking coloration, featuring a deep greenish-blue cephalothorax with contrasting fiery red hairs on the abdomen. With its calm demeanor, slow growth rate, and impressive lifespan, Aphonopelma mooreae is an excellent choice for keepers looking for a stunning yet low-maintenance tarantula.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Aphonopelma mooreae

• Common Name: Mexican Jade Fuego Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Endemic Location: Jalisco, Mexico

• Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Approximately 4.5–5” (11–13 cm)

• Urticating Hairs: Yes

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 25 years

  • Males: Around 5–7 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Taxonomy & Research Update

Aphonopelma mooreae was described relatively recently, in 2016, as part of a large revision of Aphonopelma species in Mexico. Previously, this species was often confused with other similar-looking Mexican Aphonopelma species, but genetic analysis confirmed its distinct identity.

Etymology

The species name "mooreae" honors Dr. Wendy Moore, an entomologist recognized for her work on arthropod systematics and conservation biology. The genus name Aphonopelma comes from Greek, where "aphono" means "without sound" and "pelma" means "sole" or "base of the foot," referring to the tarantula’s silent movement as it navigates its environment.

What Makes Aphonopelma mooreae Special?

Aphonopelma mooreae stands out due to its rare greenish-blue cephalothorax and fiery red hairs on the abdomen, making it one of the more visually striking Mexican Aphonopelma species. Like other members of its genus, it is known for being docile and slow-moving, making it an excellent display tarantula. However, its slow growth rate means keepers must be patient, as it can take several years to reach full size.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

Aphonopelma mooreae is native to the semi-arid and scrubland environments of Jalisco, Mexico, where it constructs deep burrows in the loose, well-draining soil. In captivity, replicating these conditions is essential for supporting natural behaviors and ensuring the tarantula’s well-being.

Housing & Substrate – Terrestrial Setup

Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size:

  • Use a small acrylic enclosure such as:

    • Sling Crib, 3" Tarantula Cube, Small Slider Crib, Small Cuboid, Terrestrial Sling Crib, Slider Crib Mini, or Cuboid Mini

  • Tarantula Cribs enclosures are recommended for their secure design and optimal ventilation.

• Substrate:

  • Fill at least 2/3rds of the enclosure with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to allow burrowing.

• Humidity:

  • Maintain a slightly damp substrate (not swampy) by offering a small water dish or gently dripping water on one corner once a week.

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size:

  • Use a medium enclosure, such as:

    • Medium Slider Crib, 6" or 8" Tarantula Cube, or Medium Cuboid

• Substrate:

  • Fill the enclosure 1/2 to 2/3 full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude, allowing ample depth for burrowing.

• Humidity:

  • Keep the substrate mostly dry, but occasionally overflow the water dish to create a slightly damp area.

• Additional Features:

  • Provide a half cork bark round for a secure hide.

Adults

• Enclosure Size:

  • Use a large enclosure, such as:

    • Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube Switch, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, or Terrestrial XL

• Substrate:

  • Fill the enclosure 1/2 to 2/3 full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to allow for burrowing while minimizing the risk of falls.

• Additional Features:

  • Include a secure hide (half cork bark round) and a shallow water dish.

  • Ensure the enclosure is wider than it is tall with secure ventilation to prevent escapes.

Affiliate: Use Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10) and Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for high-quality enclosures and substrate.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain ambient temperatures between 68°F and 76°F (20°C to 24°C).

• Humidity: Aim for moderate humidity, ensuring the lower substrate layers stay slightly moist, while the top layers remain dry to prevent mold.

Feeding Schedule

Spiderlings

• Frequency:
  Feed twice a week.

• Prey:
  Offer small prey such as flightless fruit flies, confused flour beetles, or pre-killed tiny crickets/roach nymphs. Remove any uneaten prey after 24 hours. increase the size of the prey as the spider grows. Prekill any prey that is over 2/3 the size of the sling. For more detailed information on feeding spiderlings, watch this video: How To Feed Spiderlings & Scorplings (Baby Tarantulas & Scorpions)

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 24–48 hours after a molt before feeding. Ensure that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is not soft or shiny.

Juveniles

• Frequency:
  Feed every 7–10 days.

• Prey:
  Provide 2–3 small to medium crickets or a medium Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, feed more prey more often.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, feed less prey, less often.
    This strategy helps prevent obesity, which can lead to molting complications or increase the risk of an abdomen rupture from even a small fall.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 3–7 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Adults

• Frequency:
  Feed every 2–3 weeks (or as needed).

• Prey:
  Offer 4–5 large crickets or one large Dubia roach.

• Feeding Guidelines:

  • If the abdomen is thinner than the carapace’s widest part, increase feeding frequency.

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, reduce feeding frequency.
    This is crucial to avoid obesity, which can interfere with proper molting or cause dangerous issues such as an abdomen rupture.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 5–10 days after a molt before feeding, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Behavior & Temperament

Aphonopelma mooreae is docile and slow-moving, making it an excellent display species. Like most Aphonopelma species, it is more reclusive as a spiderling but becomes more confident with age. When threatened, it prefers to retreat rather than act defensively, though it may kick urticating hairs if provoked.

Breeding Aphonopelma mooreae in Captivity

Aphonopelma mooreae, commonly known as the Mexican Jade Fuego Tarantula, is a visually stunning species native to the state of Sonora in Mexico. Renowned for its vibrant blue and green coloration, this species has garnered attention among enthusiasts for its beauty and rarity. Breeding A. mooreae can be challenging due to its slow growth rate and specific environmental requirements.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 5–7 years, characterized by longer legs and the development of bulbous pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females generally mature around 7–10 years, achieving a robust size indicative of reproductive readiness.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before introducing the male to minimize the risk of cannibalism. Gradually increasing humidity and slightly lowering temperatures prior to pairing may encourage receptiveness, mimicking seasonal changes in their natural habitat.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure during the evening or nighttime when tarantulas are more active.

• The male will typically perform courtship behaviors, such as tapping or drumming, to signal his presence.

• If receptive, the female may respond similarly or remain still, allowing the male to approach and attempt copulation.

• After successful mating, promptly remove the male to prevent potential aggression from the female.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilized, the female may produce an egg sac approximately 8–12 weeks after mating.

• Maintain temperatures around 75–80°F (24–27°C) with humidity levels between 60–70%, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth.

• An egg sac can contain a substantial number of eggs, with reports indicating clutches ranging from 100 to 200 eggs.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

• Some breeders choose to remove the egg sac from the female after 30–40 days for artificial incubation.

• If left with the mother, spiderlings (slings) will typically emerge within 6–8 weeks and undergo their first molt to the second instar stage within 3–4 weeks thereafter.

Raising Spiderlings

• A. mooreae spiderlings exhibit a slow growth rate and require stable humidity with proper ventilation.

• Provide enclosures with sufficient depth to accommodate their burrowing nature, along with proper hiding spots.

• Feed them appropriately sized prey, such as pinhead crickets or flightless fruit flies, every 5–7 days to support healthy development.

Challenges & Considerations

• Temperament: A. mooreae is known for its docile nature, making it less prone to defensive behaviors. However, caution is still advised during maintenance to prevent escapes or accidental injury.

• Humidity and Ventilation: Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial, as spiderlings are particularly susceptible to desiccation. Ensure enclosures are well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.

• Slow Growth Rate: This species exhibits a notably slow growth rate, requiring patience from breeders and keepers alike.

With their striking coloration and gentle demeanor, Aphonopelma mooreae has become a coveted species among tarantula enthusiasts. Their slow growth rate and specific breeding requirements make captive breeding efforts essential to maintain sustainable populations in the hobby. By focusing on these efforts, we can reduce the need for wild-caught specimens, ensuring the preservation of this remarkable species for future generations.

Final Thoughts

Aphonopelma mooreae (Mexican Jade Fuego Tarantula) is a stunning yet hardy tarantula, perfect for beginner and intermediate keepers. Its beautiful blue-green hues and fiery red abdomen make it an excellent display species. With proper husbandry, including:

• A secure enclosure with deep substrate

• Controlled temperature & humidity

• A balanced feeding schedule

You can maintain a healthy, thriving specimen for many years.

Additional Recommendations

• For enclosures, use: Tarantula Cribs (TTC10 for 10% off)

• For substrate, use: Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude

• For tarantulas, check out: Spider Shoppe (TTC10 for 10% off)