Golden Red Rump Tarantula

Brachypelma albiceps Care Guide

The Mexican Golden Red Rump / Amula Red Rump Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Brachypelma albiceps, known in the hobby as the Mexican Golden Red Rump Tarantula or Amula Red Rump Tarantula, is a stunning New World terrestrial species native to Mexico. This tarantula is prized for its striking appearance, a deep black, velvety body contrasted by bright red setae on the abdomen and a light gold carapace, and its robust, hardy nature. Although it grows at a medium pace and exhibits an aggressive feeding response, it is generally docile and easy to care for. With a long lifespan in females and a manageable temperament, B. albiceps is an excellent addition to any collection, despite its occasional hunger strikes and sensitivity during premolt.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Brachypelma albiceps

• Common Names: Mexican Golden Red Rump Tarantula, Amula Red Rump Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Endemic Location: Mexico

• Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Approximately 6.5” (15 cm)

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, Types I & III

• Growth Rate: Medium

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 20 years

  • Males: Around 5 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner

Taxonomy, Etymology & Research Update

First described in 1903, Brachypelma albiceps has long been a favorite among tarantula enthusiasts. While its overall morphology aligns with other Brachypelma species, its striking contrast of a dark, velvety body, vibrant red abdominal setae, and a golden carapace makes it instantly recognizable.

The genus name Brachypelma is derived from the Greek words "brachys", meaning "short," and "pelma", meaning "sole" or "foot," likely referencing the compact build and dense scopulae on the spider’s feet, which aid in gripping surfaces. The species name albiceps comes from Latin, meaning "white head," a nod to its distinctively pale golden carapace.

Recent taxonomic studies continue to refine our understanding of New World tarantulas. While Brachypelma underwent a significant revision in 2020, leading to the reclassification of several species into the Tliltocatl genus, B. albiceps remained within Brachypelma. Despite ongoing research into the phylogeny of Brachypelma and its relatives, husbandry practices for B. albiceps remain consistent with other terrestrial tarantulas, emphasizing deep substrate for burrowing, stable temperatures, and proper humidity management.

What Makes Brachypelma albiceps So Special?

The Mexican Golden Red Rump Tarantula is renowned for its dramatic color contrast that creates a visually arresting display. Its thick, robust build and steady, powerful feeding response make it a favorite among collectors. Although spiderlings tend to be more shy and prefer to burrow deep, adults are often out on display and exhibit a calm, docile demeanor. This combination of beauty, hardiness, and ease of care makes B. albiceps a must-have species for any serious collection.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Brachypelma albiceps inhabits the savanna and scrublands of Mexico, where it takes refuge in underground burrows, at the base of trees, or in abandoned animal nests. In captivity, replicating these conditions is crucial. An enclosure that provides a deep, well-draining substrate for natural burrowing is essential. Additionally, ensuring the enclosure is appropriately sized minimizes the risk of falls, which can be fatal if the tarantula climbs too high. Since tarantulas do not typically venture far from their burrows, an enclosure sized according to the tarantula’s leg span is ideal.

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:
  Maintain ambient temperatures between 68°F and 75°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:
  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)

• 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.

• 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 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 frequently.

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

Brachypelma albiceps is renowned for its striking appearance, its dark, velvety body paired with bright red setae on the abdomen and a light gold carapace creates an eye-catching display. This species is known for its docile nature and generally calm behavior, even as a spiderling. While juveniles may be somewhat skittish and prone to retreating into their burrows when disturbed, mature specimens tend to be relaxed and remain out on display. Defensive behaviors are rare, though the tarantula may kick its urticating hairs if it feels threatened. Overall, its reliable temperament and hardy nature make it an excellent choice for beginner keepers, despite its occasional hunger strikes.

Breeding Brachypelma albiceps in Captivity

Breeding Brachypelma albiceps (Mexican Golden Red Rump) is a slow process due to their long maturation time and selective breeding behaviors. However, successful captive breeding is vital to prevent wild collection and ensure the continued availability of this species in the hobby.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically mature in 4–7 years, developing tibial hooks and enlarged pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females take 8–12 years to reach full reproductive maturity.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: Ensure the female is well-fed before pairing to reduce defensive behavior. Some breeders also recommend increasing humidity slightly before pairing to mimic seasonal breeding cues.

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 may drum back or remain still, allowing the male to lift her with his tibial hooks and insert his emboli.

• Once mating is complete, the male should be removed immediately, as females may become defensive post-mating.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilized, the female will begin developing an egg sac 4–6 months after mating.

• Maintain temperatures around 72–78°F (22–25°C) with humidity levels of 60–70% to support egg sac development.

• The egg sac typically contains 400–800 eggs, though clutch size can vary.

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 8–10 weeks, molting into 2nd instar within 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.

• Keep humidity levels moderate and allow part of the enclosure to dry out between mistings to prevent mold growth.

Challenges & Considerations

• Female selectiveness: Some females may reject males outright, requiring multiple introductions to achieve successful pairing.

• Long maturation time: With slow growth rates, this species requires years of patience for breeding projects.

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

Brachypelma albiceps is a CITES-listed species, meaning wild populations are protected, and international trade is regulated. By supporting captive breeding efforts, we can help eliminate the need for wild collection while ensuring that healthy, well-adjusted specimens remain available. Ethical breeding protects natural populations while maintaining strong genetic diversity in captivity.

Final Thoughts

Brachypelma albiceps (Mexican Golden Red Rump Tarantula) is one of the most admired New World tarantulas in the hobby. Its dramatic coloration, robust build, and strong feeding response make it a captivating display species. With proper husbandry, including an enclosure with substrate filled 1/2 to 2/3 full (providing ample burrowing depth while minimizing fall risk), controlled temperature and humidity, and a balanced feeding routine adjusted according to abdomen size, you can ensure your tarantula remains healthy and vibrant for many years.

Additional Recommendations:
For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (use affiliate code TTC10 for a 10% discount), and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate. For tarantula supplies, 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 savanna and scrub lands of Mexico, Brachypelma albiceps thrives in an environment where it can seek refuge in underground burrows, often at the base of trees or in abandoned animal nests. This opportunistic burrowing behavior allows it to escape the harsh sun and avoid predators. Replicating these natural conditions in captivity with a deep, well-draining substrate is essential to its health and longevity.

• Sensory & Behavioral Adaptations:
  Although B. albiceps has eight eyes, its vision is relatively poor. It relies on highly sensitive chemotactile setae to detect vibrations and chemical cues in its environment. This adaptation enables it to detect prey and potential threats, prompting rapid defensive behaviors such as kicking urticating hairs when necessary.

• Feeding & Health Management:
  Preventing obesity is vital to avoid molting complications or an abdomen rupture from even a minor fall. Monitoring the tarantula’s abdomen relative to its carapace is essential: if the abdomen is thinner than the carapace’s widest part, feed more frequently; if wider, reduce feeding. 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 Brachypelma is derived from Greek, with “brachy” meaning “short” and “pelma” referring to the sole or base of the foot. This nomenclature reflects the relatively compact body structure of these tarantulas and underscores their evolutionary adaptations as ground-dwelling, terrestrial species.

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