Mexican Blood Leg Tarantula

Aphonopelma bicoloratum Care Guide

The Mexican Blood Leg / Mexican Beauty Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

If you're looking for a tarantula with stunning colors and a mellow personality, Aphonopelma bicoloratum, commonly known as the Mexican Blood Leg or Mexican Beauty, might just be the perfect pick. Native to the dry forests and scrublands of southwestern Mexico, this terrestrial species is a true gem in the hobby, boasting a rich orange coloration that sets it apart from its flashier cousins like Brachypelma boehmei. While the two species are often confused, A. bicoloratum tends to showcase a more uniform orange hue, lacking the deeper red tones seen in B. boehmei.

Though it grows at a notoriously slow pace and maxes out at a modest 5-inch diagonal leg span, this tarantula more than makes up for it with its striking appearance and calm demeanor. Its docile temperament makes it an excellent candidate for beginner keepers, while its vibrant colors and long lifespan make it a rewarding addition to any collection. Whether you're new to the hobby or a seasoned keeper looking for a low-maintenance display species, the Mexican Blood Leg is a fantastic choice.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Aphonopelma bicoloratum

• Common Names: Mexican Blood Leg Tarantula, Mexican Beauty Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Endemic Location: Southwestern Mexico

• Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Approximately 5” (12 cm)

• Urticating Hairs: Yes

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 25 years

  • Males: Approximately 7 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner

Taxonomy & Research Update

Aphonopelma bicoloratum was described in 1996 and is frequently confused with Brachypelma boehmei due to similar appearances. However, while both species share New World terrestrial characteristics and urticating hairs, A. bicoloratum typically exhibits a more orange hue. Ongoing taxonomic studies and careful breeder selection have improved the accuracy of identification in the hobby, helping ensure that hobbyists receive authentic specimens.

What Makes Aphonopelma bicoloratum So Special?

The Mexican Blood Leg Tarantula is the perfect blend of striking coloration, calm temperament, and impressive longevity. With its warm orange legs contrasting beautifully against its dark velvety body, Aphonopelma bicoloratum is a true standout among New World species. Its proportionate, well-balanced build gives it an elegant appearance, making it a highly sought-after display tarantula.

Beyond its looks, this species is known for its relaxed demeanor and steady feeding response. While spiderlings and juveniles tend to be more skittish, often retreating into burrows when disturbed, mature specimens gain confidence with age. Adults are more likely to remain out in the open, showing off their vibrant colors and making them an excellent display species. Unlike some tarantulas that vanish into their hides for weeks at a time, a well-acclimated A. bicoloratum will often stay visible, adding a bold splash of color to any collection.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Aphonopelma bicoloratum inhabits the savanna and scrub lands of southwestern Mexico, where it resides in underground burrows, often at the base of trees or in abandoned animal nests. In captivity, replicating these conditions means providing a deep, well‑draining substrate that allows for natural burrowing while minimizing fall risk. Enclosures should be wider than they are tall, ensuring that the tarantula remains close to the substrate.

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. We recommend enclosures by Tarantula Cribs for their proven quality and safety.

• 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 depth ensures ample space for burrowing while minimizing the risk of injury from falls.

• 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× for enhanced natural behavior, while considering escape risks). Enclosures by Tarantula Cribs are highly recommended.

• Substrate:
  Fill the enclosure 1/2 to 2/3 full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to provide sufficient depth for burrowing while reducing the risk of 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 ample space for natural burrowing while minimizing fall risk. Remember, tarantulas are escape artists—always verify that ventilation holes, lids, and gaps are too small for your tarantula to squeeze through. They can and will climb glass and other smooth surfaces.

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

Temperature & Humidity

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

• Humidity:
  Aim for moderate humidity. Ensure that the substrate remains moist in the lower layers to support effective burrowing while allowing the top layers to dry between waterings 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, ensuring that the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened.

Juveniles

• Frequency:
  Feed every 7–10 days.

• Prey:
  Provide 1–2 pinhead or very small crickets (or roaches) that are no larger than 1/2 to 2/3 the size of the tarantula.

• Feeding Guidelines:

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

  • If the abdomen is wider than the carapace, reduce feeding frequency.
    This helps prevent obesity, which could lead to molting complications or an abdomen rupture from even a minor fall.

• Post-Molt:
  Wait 3–7 days after a molt before feeding.

Adults

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

• Prey:
  Offer 3–4 large crickets or a few mealworms/roaches, adjusted based on the tarantula’s appetite and abdomen size.

• 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 bicoloratum is known for its generally docile nature and calm demeanor as an adult, which makes it an excellent display species. While spiderlings and juveniles tend to be more skittish and will quickly retreat into their burrows when disturbed, mature specimens are confident and spend a good portion of their time out on display. Defensive behaviors are rare, but if provoked, this species may kick its urticating hairs. Its slow growth and steady feeding response contribute to its reliability, making it a favorite for beginner keepers despite common taxonomic confusion with similar species.

Breeding Aphonopelma bicoloratum in Captivity

Breeding Aphonopelma bicoloratum (Mexican Bloodleg Tarantula) can be a slow but rewarding process. This species has long maturation times and relatively small egg sacs compared to other tarantulas, but captive breeding efforts are crucial due to their limited range and collection restrictions in the wild.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically mature in 5–7 years, developing tibial hooks and enlarged pedipalps.

• Female Maturity: Females take even longer, often 8–10 years, before they are fully mature and ready for breeding.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: The female should be well-fed before introduction to reduce the chances of aggression.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male at night when both tarantulas are naturally more active.

• The male will drum on the substrate to signal his presence.

• If receptive, the female will remain still or drum back, allowing the male to lift her with his tibial hooks and insert his emboli.

• Once copulation is complete, remove the male immediately, as females may attempt to cannibalize him.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilization is successful, the female will begin developing an egg sac in 4–6 months.

• Maintain temperatures around 72–78°F (22–25°C) and humidity levels of 55–65% to encourage egg sac production. (see Challenges & Considerations section)

• The female will guard the egg sac, which typically contains 100–300 eggs.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

• Some breeders prefer to pull the egg sac after 30–45 days for artificial incubation.

• If left with the mother, 1st instar spiderlings will emerge in about 8–10 weeks, molting into 2nd instar after another 3–4 weeks.

Raising Spiderlings

• Once the spiderlings reach 2nd instar, separate them into individual enclosures.

• Feed them pinhead crickets, flightless fruit flies, or small roaches every 3–4 days.

Challenges & Considerations

• Female aggression: A. bicoloratum is generally more docile than other species, but males should still be removed after mating.

• Long maturation time: Due to slow growth rates, breeding this species requires years of patience.

• Small egg sacs: Compared to other species, A. bicoloratum produces fewer eggs, making each successful breeding attempt valuable.

• Winter Diapause Required for Egg Sac Production: Unlike many other tarantulas, Aphonopelma species require a winter diapause to trigger consistent egg sac production. This means exposing them to cooler temperatures for several months to mimic their natural seasonal cycle.

• Spring Feeding and Humidity Increase: As temperatures rise in the spring, females should be fed heavily and humidity should be increased to simulate natural conditions. If gravid, they will typically begin producing an egg sac a few weeks later.

• Long Timeline from Pairing to Egg Sac: The entire process from pairing to egg sac production typically takes around six months, making patience and seasonal adjustments critical for success.

While Aphonopelma bicoloratum is a slow-growing species with relatively small egg sacs, its striking coloration and gentle temperament make it a sought-after tarantula in the hobby. Captive breeding helps reduce pressure on wild populations, making each successful pairing an important contribution.

Final Thoughts

Aphonopelma bicoloratum (Mexican Blood Leg / Mexican Beauty Tarantula) is a captivating species that stands out for its vibrant coloration and elegant appearance. Its modest adult size, combined with a docile temperament and robust feeding response, makes it an excellent choice for beginners. With proper care, including an enclosure with substrate filled 1/2 to 2/3 full (ensuring ample burrowing depth while minimizing fall risk), controlled temperature and moderate humidity, and a balanced feeding routine adjusted based on abdomen size, you can maintain a healthy, thriving tarantula for many years.

Additional Recommendations:
For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10 for a 10% discount), and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate and check all their other bio active 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.

Additional Scientific Information

• Ecological Adaptations:
  Native to the scrub lands and savannas of southwestern Mexico, Aphonopelma bicoloratum thrives in dry, well-draining environments. Its opportunistic burrowing behavior helps it evade the harsh sun and conserve moisture, while its gradual growth reflects an adaptation to an environment where food resources and predation pressure are balanced.

• Sensory & Behavioral Adaptations:
  Like many New World tarantulas, A. bicoloratum relies on chemotactile setae to detect vibrations and chemical cues, compensating for its limited vision. This sensory ability allows it to detect prey and respond quickly to potential threats by retreating into its burrow or, if necessary, kicking its urticating hairs.

• Feeding & Health Management:
  Preventing obesity is critical for successful molting. Regular monitoring of the abdomen relative to the carapace is essential: if the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, more frequent feedings are warranted; if it is wider, feedings should be reduced to avoid health complications such as molting difficulties or an abdomen rupture. Always wait until the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened before feeding (Spiderlings: 24–48 hours; Juveniles: 3–7 days; Adults: 5–10 days post-molt).

• Etymology & Genus Relevance:
  The genus Aphonopelma is derived from Greek, where “aphono” means “without sound” and “pelma” means “sole” or “base of the foot.” This name reflects the tarantula's quiet, stealthy nature, emphasizing its evolutionary adaptations as a ground-dwelling species. Its species epithet “bicoloratum” highlights the contrasting coloration found on its legs and abdomen, underscoring its visual appeal in the hobby.

(For further reading, consult recent publications in the Journal of Arachnology and ZooKeys for comprehensive taxonomic and ecological insights on New World Theraphosidae.)