Mexican Black Velvet Tarantula

Tliltocatl schroederi Care Guide

Mexican Black Velvet

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

The Tliltocatl schroederi is a lesser-known but fascinating terrestrial tarantula species, originating from the mountainous regions of Mexico. This species is known for its striking coloration, generally featuring a mix of dark tones with subtle reddish hues on the legs and carapace. Like other Tliltocatl species, it is hardy, slow-growing, and relatively docile, making it a great choice for both beginner and experienced keepers.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Tliltocatl schroederi

• Common Name: Mexican Black Velvet

• Origin: Mexico

• Type: Terrestrial

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

• Adult Size: ~5–6 inches (12–15 cm)

• Lifespan: Males 7–10 years, Females 20–30 years

• Temperament: Generally docile but can be skittish

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, moderate to strong irritation

• Venom Potency: Mild, comparable to a bee sting in most cases

Natural Habitat

Tliltocatl schroederi originates from higher-elevation regions of Mexico, where the climate is cooler and semi-arid. These tarantulas thrive in areas with loose, burrowable soil and scattered vegetation. The cooler, drier conditions of their natural environment should be considered when setting up their enclosure.

Housing & Substrate – Terrestrial Setup

Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size:
  Use a small acrylic enclosure (e.g., Sling Crib, 3" Tarantula Cube, Small Slider Crib, Small Cuboid, Terrestrial Sling Crib, Slider Crib Mini, or Cuboid Mini) that is no smaller than three times the tarantula’s leg span.

• Substrate:
  Fill at least 2/3rds of the enclosure with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude.

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

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size:
  Use a medium enclosure (e.g., Medium Slider Crib, 6" or 8" Tarantula Cube, or Medium Cuboid) that is at least 3–4× the tarantula’s leg span.

• Substrate:
  Fill the enclosure 1/2 to 2/3 full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude. This ensures ample burrowing depth while minimizing fall risk.

• Humidity:
  Keep the substrate mostly dry with a full water dish; occasionally overflow one corner 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 (e.g., Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube Switch, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, or Terrestrial XL) that is at least 3× the tarantula’s leg span (ideally 4–5× for enhanced natural behavior while still minimizing escape risks).

• Substrate:
  Fill the enclosure 1/2 to 2/3 full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to provide ample depth for burrowing while reducing the risk of injury from falls.

• Additional Features:
  Include a secure hide (preferably a half cork bark round) and a shallow water dish. Ensure the enclosure is a horizontal rectangle (wider than it is deep) with secure ventilation and a tight, secure lid to prevent escapes.

Note:
The general rule of thumb for tarantula enclosures is that the enclosure should be no smaller than three times the tarantula’s leg span for spiderlings, 3–4× for juveniles, and 3–4× for adults. This ensures sufficient space for natural burrowing while minimizing fall risk. Remember, tarantulas are escape artists, so always verify that ventilation holes, lids, and gaps are too small for your tarantula to squeeze through.

Affiliate: Please use Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10) and Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 68–78°F (20–26°C)

• Humidity: 55–65%

• Ventilation: Ensure good cross-ventilation to prevent excessive moisture buildup.

• Water Dish: Always provide a small water dish for hydration. Light misting is optional, but excessive humidity should be avoided.

Behavior & Temperament

Tliltocatl schroederi tends to be calm but can be slightly skittish when disturbed. While they may tolerate handling better than some other species, handling is not recommended due to the risk of injury to the tarantula. They have urticating hairs that can be irritating, so be cautious when performing enclosure maintenance.

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.

Molting & Growth

As a slow-growing species, Tliltocatl schroederi will molt less frequently as it ages. Signs of an upcoming molt include:

• Refusal to eat

• Darkening of the abdomen

• Lethargy and hiding more often

Once molting begins, avoid disturbing the tarantula. Do not attempt to feed until the fangs harden, which typically takes about a week for juveniles and longer for adults.

Handling & Safety

Handling tarantulas is generally discouraged due to the risk of falls and injury. If handling is necessary, do so close to the ground and with caution. Their urticating hairs can cause irritation, so wash hands thoroughly if exposed.

Breeding Tliltocatl schroederi in Captivity

Tliltocatl schroederi, commonly known as the Mexican Black Velvet Tarantula, is a terrestrial species native to the Valles Centrales de Oaxaca in Oaxaca State, Mexico. Recognized for its deep black coloration and velvet-like sheen, this species is relatively rare in the hobby. Breeding T. schroederi in captivity requires understanding their specific environmental needs and reproductive behaviors.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 3–4 years, characterized by longer legs and the development of bulbous pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females generally mature around 4–5 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. Providing an enclosure with adequate substrate depth for burrowing and a suitable hide can facilitate a more natural interaction during pairing.

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 3–5 months after mating.

• Maintain temperatures around 70–85°F (21–29°C) with humidity levels between 65–80%, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth.

• An egg sac can contain fewer but larger eggs compared to other Tliltocatl species, resulting in larger and faster-maturing spiderlings.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

• Some breeders choose to remove the egg sac from the female after 4 weeks 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

• T. schroederi spiderlings exhibit a moderate growth rate and require stable humidity with proper ventilation.

• Provide enclosures with sufficient substrate depth to accommodate their burrowing nature, including structures for hiding and web attachment.

• Feed them appropriately sized prey, such as pinhead crickets or flightless fruit flies, every 3–4 days to support healthy development.

Challenges & Considerations

• Temperament: T. schroederi is generally docile but can exhibit defensive behaviors when threatened. Caution is 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.

Due to its rarity and striking appearance, Tliltocatl schroederi is a prized species among tarantula enthusiasts. Captive breeding is essential to maintain healthy populations in the hobby and to reduce the need for wild-caught specimens. By focusing on these efforts, we can ensure the sustainability of this remarkable species for future generations.

Final Thoughts

Tliltocatl schroederi is a stunning and lesser-known species that deserves more recognition in the hobby. Its deep black, velvety appearance sets it apart from other Tliltocatl species, making it a favorite among collectors who appreciate its sleek and subtle beauty. While it shares the hardy and manageable nature of its close relatives, T. schroederi is still relatively rare in the trade, making captive breeding efforts all the more important.

With proper care, including a well-ventilated enclosure, a deep substrate for burrowing, and a consistent feeding schedule, this species can thrive in captivity for many years. Their calm yet skittish temperament makes them fascinating display tarantulas, though their occasional defensive posturing reminds keepers to respect their space. For those looking to add a unique and beautiful tarantula to their collection, Tliltocatl schroederi is a fantastic choice that highlights the diversity within this genus.

Additional Recommendations:

(a small commission comes back to help support the Tarantula Collective)

For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10 for a 10% discount), and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate and other bioactive supplies.

For tarantulas, check out Spider Shoppe (use code TTC10 for 10% off), and visit the Dealer & Discounts section on my website for a curated list of recommended dealers and discount codes.