Red Stripe Pinktoe Tarantula

Avicularia minatrix Care Guide

The Red Slate Pinktoe Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

The Avicularia minatrix, better known as the Red Slate Pinktoe, is a striking dwarf arboreal tarantula native to the forests of Venezuela. Though small in size, this species more than makes up for it with its bold coloration, fascinating behaviors, and unique webbing tendencies. Unlike larger Avicularia species, A. minatrix has been observed exhibiting semi-communal tendencies in the wild, adding to its intrigue among hobbyists. Its manageable size, vibrant appearance, and characteristic arboreal habits make it a standout species for keepers looking to explore the world of smaller tree-dwelling tarantulas.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Avicularia minatrix

• Common Names: Red Slate Pinktoe

• Type: Arboreal (Dwarf)

• Category: New World

• Native Range: Venezuela

• Size: Up to 3 inches diagonal leg span (7.5 cm)

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Life Expectancy: Females up to 12 years; males 2–3 years

• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural History

The Avicularia minatrix was first described by Reginald Innes Pocock in 1903, contributing to the growing understanding of arboreal tarantulas within the Avicularia genus. Over time, taxonomic revisions have clarified its place among Avicularia species, particularly as researchers have studied its distinct characteristics and behaviors.

The genus name "Avicularia" comes from the Latin word "avicula", meaning "small bird," a reference to outdated misconceptions that these tarantulas preyed upon birds. This idea was popularized by 18th-century illustrations showing large tarantulas capturing small birds, though in reality, Avicularia species primarily hunt insects and small invertebrates. The species name "minatrix" likely refers to its reddish coloration or an "intimidating" appearance, though its relatively small size and skittish nature make it far from a true menace.

In the wild, A. minatrix is found in the humid forests of Venezuela, where it thrives in high-canopy environments. Unlike some other Avicularia species that primarily inhabit tree hollows, this tarantula has been observed making use of bromeliads, tropical plants that collect water and debris in their base, creating a perfect microhabitat. Interestingly, reports suggest that multiple A. minatrix individuals have been found sharing the same bromeliad while maintaining separate web tunnels. This suggests a degree of tolerance rather than true communal living, a rare trait in tarantulas.

Reproduction in A. minatrix is also notable, as females produce relatively small egg sacs compared to other tarantulas, typically containing only 20–40 eggs. This lower reproductive output contributes to their limited availability in the hobby. Their combination of rarity, small size, and vibrant coloration makes them a sought-after species for arboreal tarantula enthusiasts.

Understanding the natural history of Avicularia minatrix provides valuable insights into their care requirements, reinforcing the need for a well-ventilated, arboreal setup that mimics their wild environment as closely as possible.

Housing & Substrate

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Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size: Treehouse Mini, Coffin Crib Mini, Sling Crib

• Substrate: 1–2” layer of Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude

• Decor: Small cork bark, twigs, artificial foliage

• Water: Small dish, occasional misting

Juveniles

• Enclosure Size: Treehouse Switch Small, Small Treehouse, Coffin Crib Medium

• Substrate: 1–2” Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude

• Decor: Vertical cork bark, secure hiding spots, foliage

• Water: Small dish

Adults

• Enclosure Size: Treehouse Switch-XL2.0, Large Treehouse - Clear Back, Large Coffin Crib

• Substrate: 2–3” Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude

• Decor: Cork bark tubes, branches, ample foliage

• Water: Large water dish

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 68–76°F (20–24°C)

• Humidity: 65–75%; moderate humidity maintained with a large water dish and good cross ventilation

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

The Avicularia minatrix, despite its generally docile nature, is an exceptionally skittish and fast-moving species. As a dwarf arboreal tarantula, it relies heavily on its speed and webbing for defense rather than aggression. At the slightest disturbance, it will retreat rapidly into its intricate web tunnels, making it one of the more reclusive Avicularia species. Unlike many other New World tarantulas that flick urticating hairs as a defense mechanism, A. minatrix possesses Type II urticating hairs, which are transferred through direct contact rather than being kicked into the air. While this reduces the risk of airborne irritation, it still requires care when interacting with the species.

Bites from A. minatrix are rare, and their venom is considered mild, but their quick movements make them difficult to handle safely. Due to their tendency to jump or bolt when startled, handling is strongly discouraged. Even a short fall can cause severe injury or death, given their small size and fragile bodies. Instead of handling, this species is best appreciated through observation, where its fascinating web-building behaviors and natural arboreal habits can be fully enjoyed within a secure, well-designed enclosure.

Breeding Avicularia minatrix in Captivity

Breeding Avicularia minatrix (Venezuelan Redstripe Pinktoe) can be a rewarding challenge due to their arboreal nature, smaller size, and specific environmental needs. Their delicate spiderlings and limited availability make captive breeding essential to reduce reliance on wild-caught specimens and help preserve this species in the hobby.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males reach maturity in 2–3 years, developing enlarged pedipalps for sperm transfer but no tibial hooks like terrestrial species.

• Female Maturity: Females take 4–6 years to reach reproductive maturity.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: Ensure the female is well-fed before pairing to reduce the risk of defensive behavior. Maintain high humidity (75–80%) with adequate ventilation to mimic their natural humid rainforest habitat.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure at night, ensuring multiple exit points for him.

• Males typically drum on the substrate or webbing to communicate with the female.

• If receptive, the female will remain calm or drum back, allowing the male to approach and insert his emboli.

• Once mating is complete, the male should be removed immediately, as the female’s response can be unpredictable.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilization is successful, the female will produce an egg sac 3–5 months after mating.

• Maintain 75–80°F (24–27°C) with high humidity (75–80%), ensuring good airflow to prevent mold growth in the enclosure.

• The egg sac typically contains 50–150 eggs, which is relatively small compared to larger arboreal species.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

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

• If left with the mother, 1st instar spiderlings will emerge after 6–8 weeks, molting into 2nd instar within 3–4 weeks.

Raising Spiderlings

• A. minatrix spiderlings are small and delicate, requiring proper ventilation and humidity balance.

• House them in ventilated arboreal enclosures with plenty of climbing surfaces.

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

• Ensure humidity remains consistent but not stagnant, as overly damp conditions can be fatal.

Challenges & Considerations

• Small egg sacs: Compared to other Avicularia species, A. minatrix produces fewer eggs, making each successful breeding important.

• Humidity balance: High humidity is necessary, but stagnant air can lead to mold or respiratory issues, so cross-ventilation is essential.

• Temperament variability: While females are generally tolerant, individual responses to males can differ, so close monitoring is advised.

• Male lifespan: Males typically do not live more than a year after maturing, so breeding attempts should be made as soon as possible.

Avicularia minatrix is less common in the hobby, and their natural habitat is under threat. By supporting captive breeding efforts, keepers can help reduce the demand for wild-caught specimens, ensuring that this species remains available without harming wild populations. Breeding in captivity also improves genetic diversity and provides hobbyists with hardier, well-adjusted individuals.

Final Thoughts

The Red Slate Pinktoe (Avicularia minatrix) is a fascinating addition to the world of arboreal tarantulas, offering a unique alternative to the more commonly kept Caribena versicolor or Avicularia avicularia. Its compact size, striking coloration, and intricate webbing behaviors make it an intriguing species for keepers who appreciate observation over interaction. However, its reclusive nature means it may not be the best choice for those seeking a highly visible display tarantula.

Once a rarity in the hobby, A. minatrix has become more available thanks to dedicated captive breeding efforts, which not only support the species' sustainability in captivity but also help reduce the demand for wild-caught specimens. With proper care, this small but remarkable tarantula can thrive in captivity, rewarding patient keepers with glimpses of its natural arboreal behaviors and delicate webbed retreats.

Additional Recommendations

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