Brachypelma emilia Care Guide

The Mexican Redleg Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Brachypelma emilia, commonly known as the Mexican Redleg Tarantula, is an underrated New World terrestrial species native to Mexico’s Pacific scrublands. Praised for its bold appearance, including a distinctive black triangle on its carapace, deep black abdomen, and rich reddish-brown legs, the Mexican Redleg is a hardy and docile tarantula ideal for beginners. Despite its slow growth, it makes an excellent display species with a long lifespan in females (up to 20–25 years) and a shorter lifespan in males (around 4 years). Although it possesses urticating hairs, its venom is extremely mild, making defensive behavior more of a concern than any bite.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Brachypelma emilia

• Common Name: Mexican Redleg Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Endemic Location: Mexico (Pacific scrublands)

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

• Urticating Hairs: Yes

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 20–25 years

  • Males: Approximately 4 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner

Taxonomy & Research Update

Described over a century ago, Brachypelma emilia has long been a favorite in the hobby due to its reliable temperament and distinctive markings. Although common names and identification can be confusing, sometimes overlapping with species like B. emilia being mistaken for the Mexican Fireleg's; the Mexican Redleg is now recognized for its signature bold triangle on the carapace and its unique coloration. Ongoing taxonomic work continues to refine the relationships among New World Theraphosidae, ensuring accurate identification for hobbyists.

What Makes Brachypelma emilia So Special?

The Mexican Redleg Tarantula is celebrated for its dramatic visual appeal. Its bold black triangle on the carapace becomes even more pronounced as it matures, setting it apart from similar species. Combined with deep black abdomens, rich reddish-brown legs, and a light gold carapace, these tarantulas exude an air of elegance. Despite its slow growth, B. emilia’s calm and docile nature, especially in adults, makes it a superb display species that is as captivating as it is low-maintenance.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In the wild, Brachypelma emilia is found in the savanna and scrublands of Mexico, where it takes refuge in underground burrows at the base of trees or in abandoned nests. In captivity, replicating these conditions is key: the enclosure should provide ample, deep substrate for natural burrowing while being wider than it is tall to prevent falls. Keeping the tarantula close to the substrate minimizes injury risks if it attempts to climb.

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 provides ample depth 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 4–5× 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 3–5× for adults. This setup ensures ample 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 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. 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

Brachypelma emilia is known for its calm and gentle demeanor as an adult, making it a superb display species. Spiderlings and juveniles can be somewhat skittish, quickly retreating into their burrows when disturbed. However, mature specimens typically remain relaxed and confident on display. While this species rarely exhibits defensive behavior, it does possess urticating hairs, so handling should be minimal to avoid any irritation.

Breeding Brachypelma emilia in Captivity

Breeding Brachypelma emilia (Mexican Redleg Tarantula) requires patience due to their slow growth rate and selective mating behavior. As a CITES-protected species, captive breeding is essential to keep this stunning species available in the hobby while ensuring wild populations remain undisturbed.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

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

• Female Maturity: Females take significantly longer, often 8–12 years, before they are fully mature and receptive.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before pairing to minimize defensive reactions. Some breeders have success by slightly increasing humidity before introducing the male to mimic seasonal breeding cues.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male at night, when 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 afterward.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilization is successful, the female will begin producing 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 numbers may 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, we should 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 for successful pairing.

• Long maturation time: With slow growth rates, breeding B. emilia requires years of patience.

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

Since Brachypelma emilia is a CITES-protected species, wild collection should never be an option. By focusing on captive breeding efforts, we help ensure healthy, thriving populations in the hobby while protecting those in the wild. Every successful breeding project reduces demand for wild-caught specimens and strengthens the future of this species for keepers and conservation alike.

Final Thoughts

Brachypelma emilia (Mexican Redleg Tarantula) is a hidden gem among New World tarantulas. Its striking black triangle on the carapace, deep black abdomen, and rich reddish-brown legs, combined with its docile temperament and robust feeding response, make it an excellent choice for beginners. 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 moderate humidity, and a balanced feeding routine adjusted based on abdomen size, you can enjoy a healthy, thriving specimen 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 savanna and scrublands of Mexico, Brachypelma emilia is adapted to an environment where it primarily inhabits underground burrows at the base of trees or in abandoned animal nests. Its burrowing behavior not only provides protection from predators and extreme weather but also allows it to regulate moisture levels effectively.

• Sensory & Behavioral Adaptations:
  Although B. emilia possesses eight eyes, its vision is limited; it relies heavily on sensitive chemotactile setae to detect vibrations and chemical cues in its environment. This sensory adaptation is essential for ambush hunting and helps it respond rapidly to potential threats, although defensive behaviors are minimal in this species.

• Feeding & Health Management:
  Preventing obesity is crucial for successful molting. Monitoring the abdomen relative to the carapace is key: if the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, more frequent feeding may be necessary; if it is wider, feedings should be reduced. 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” meaning “sole” or “base of the foot.” This nomenclature reflects the compact, ground-dwelling nature of these tarantulas, while the species epithet “emilia” helps distinguish this elegant, display-worthy tarantula from its congeners.

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