Amazon Blue Bloom Tarantula

Xenesthis intermedia Care Guide

Amazon Blue Bloom Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Xenesthis intermedia, commonly known as the Amazon Blue Bloom Tarantula, is a large, tropical New World species prized for its vibrant blue hues, striking leg markings, and impressive size. Native to the rainforests of South America, this species is a terrestrial opportunistic burrower, preferring humid environments with ample space to roam and burrow. With a fast growth rate, strong feeding response, and defensive temperament, this species is best suited for experienced keepers who can provide the proper conditions for its moisture-dependent habitat.

One of the most visually stunning tarantulas in the hobby, X. intermedia reaches an impressive leg span of up to 9 inches (23 cm), making it one of the largest species within the Theraphosidae family. While not overly aggressive, this species can be defensive when provoked, making it better suited as a display tarantula rather than a handling species.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Xenesthis intermedia

• Common Names: Amazon Blue Bloom Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial, Opportunistic Burrower

• Category: New World

• Native Range: South America (Amazon Rainforest)

• Size: Up to 9” (23 cm) DLS

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Life Expectancy: Females ~15–20 years; Males ~3–4 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, Types I and III

• Venom Potency: Mild to Moderate (typical for New World species)

Taxonomy & Research Update

Xenesthis intermedia is a striking species within the Xenesthis genus, a group of large, vibrant tarantulas native to South America. Originally described by Schiapelli & Gerschman in 1945, X. intermedia is closely related to other well-known species such as Xenesthis immanis and Xenesthis monstrosa. While it shares the dramatic size and bold coloration of its relatives, X. intermedia is distinguished by its unique blend of iridescent hues and leg markings, making it a visually stunning addition to any collection.

Despite its impressive appearance, X. intermedia remains one of the rarer Xenesthis species in the hobby. Due to its slow growth rate and the challenges of breeding this genus in captivity, it has not been as widely available as other South American tarantulas. However, with increased efforts in captive breeding, this species is gradually becoming more accessible to experienced keepers.

What Makes Xenesthis intermedia So Special?

There’s no mistaking a Xenesthis intermedia for an ordinary tarantula. Like its relatives, this species is known for its incredible size, often reaching a leg span of 7–8 inches (18–20 cm) when fully grown. But what really sets it apart is its striking coloration. X. intermedia displays a combination of deep black, reddish-brown, and subtle iridescent tones that shimmer under light, making it one of the most visually impressive tarantulas in the hobby.

Beyond its looks, this species has an energetic and bold nature. While not typically defensive, X. intermedia is fast-moving and highly food-motivated, making feeding time a thrilling experience. Its strong feeding response and active behavior make it an engaging species to observe, though its speed means it’s best suited for experienced keepers who can manage quick and unpredictable movements.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Xenesthis intermedia inhabits the humid forests and grasslands of Colombia and Venezuela, where it thrives in warm, tropical conditions. Unlike strict burrowers or arboreal species, X. intermedia is a terrestrial tarantula that benefits from a deep substrate layer for burrowing while also being known to create surface-level retreats.

A spacious enclosure with at least 6 inches (15 cm) of slightly moist, well-draining substrate is ideal for this species. Good ventilation is crucial to prevent excess humidity buildup, and a large, sturdy hide will help replicate its natural shelters. Due to its size and activity level, X. intermedia requires more space than the average terrestrial tarantula, making an enclosure with plenty of floor area a must. With the right setup, this species can thrive and become a centerpiece tarantula in any advanced keeper’s collection.

Housing & Substrate

Spiderlings

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

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

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure from half to 2/3rds full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude. This provides ample space for burrowing while minimizing the risk of fall damage.

• Humidity: Keep the substrate mostly dry with a full water dish; you can occasionally overflow one corner to create a slightly damp area.

• Additional Features: Provide a half cork bark round for a secure hide and include a shallow water dish sized appropriately for the tarantula’s leg span.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, or Terrestrial XL

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure from half to 2/3rds full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to allow for deep burrowing while minimizing fall risk.

• Additional Features: Include a secure hide (ideally a half cork bark round), a shallow water dish, and tasteful decorations. Ensure the enclosure is wider than it is deep and has a secure, tight lid to prevent escapes or injuries.

Note: Consider using this affiliate link or entering the affiliate code TTC10 at Tarantula Cribs to save 10% on your enclosure purchases.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Keep the ambient temperature between 74°F and 80°F (23-27°C) for optimal health.

• Humidity: Maintain moderate to high humidity. Ensure that the substrate is kept moist (for spiderlings) and allow the top layers to dry between waterings (for juveniles and adults) to prevent mold growth.

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.

Breeding Xenesthis intermedia in Captivity

(general outline, specifics under revision)

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Males: Reach maturity in 2–3 years.

• Females: Reach reproductive maturity in 4–5 years.

• Pairing: Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure at night, ensuring multiple escape routes for him.

Mating Process

• Males initiate courtship with palp drumming and leg tapping.

• If receptive, the female will allow insertion before retreating.

• Males should be removed immediately after mating to prevent potential predation.

Egg Sac Production

• Females produce an egg sac 4–6 months post-mating.

• Egg sacs contain 100–300 eggs.

• Maintain 75-80°F (24-27°C) with high humidity (75-80%).

Raising Spiderlings

• First instar spiderlings emerge 6-8 weeks post-sac.

• Feed pinhead crickets or fruit flies every 3-4 days.

• Provide high humidity with proper airflow.

Challenges & Considerations

• X. intermedia’s size and defensive temperament make pairing tricky.

• Humidity balance is crucial to prevent desiccation or mold growth.

• Ethical breeding is essential to sustaining this species in the hobby and reducing wild collection.

Final Thoughts

Xenesthis intermedia is an incredibly striking large terrestrial species that captivates keepers with its bold coloration, rapid growth, and impressive size. While it may not be the most defensive species, its speed and strong feeding response make it a species best suited for intermediate to advanced keepers. Its opportunistic burrowing behavior and preference for humid conditions require careful moisture management and proper ventilation to prevent issues like mold or desiccation.

Due to its restricted natural range and conservation concerns, supporting captive breeding efforts is crucial to ensuring a stable population in the hobby. If you're looking for a large, high-energy tarantula with a stunning appearance, X. intermedia is a rewarding choice for a well-maintained collection.

Additional Recommendations

For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (TTC10 for 10% off), and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate. For legal captive-bred tarantulas, check out Spider Shoppe (TTC10 for 10% off).