Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula

Davus pentaloris Care Guide

The Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Davus pentaloris, commonly known as the Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula, is a striking New World terrestrial species native to southern Mexico and Guatemala. Known for its rapid growth and dramatic coloration, with a robust, dark body and distinctive patterns, the Guatemalan Tiger Rump is a popular choice for beginner to intermediate keepers. Although it possesses irritating Type III urticating hairs and can be somewhat skittish, its generally docile nature and impressive feeding response make it a reliable and dynamic addition to any collection.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Davus pentaloris

• Common Name: Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial, Opportunistic Burrower

• Category: New World

• Endemic Location: Southern Mexico and Guatemala

• Body Length: Approximately 2” (5 cm)

• Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Approximately 4.75” (12 cm)

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, Type III

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 11 years

  • Males: Around 3 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Intermediate

What Makes Davus pentaloris So Special?

The Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula is admired for its unique, vibrant color patterns and rapid growth. With a body that typically reaches about 4–4.5 inches in leg span as an adult, this species grows quickly, often adding nearly an inch per year. Its aggressive feeding response and ease of care make it a favorite display species. Although generally docile, D. pentaloris can be skittish and may quickly bolt when disturbed, so careful enclosure management is essential.

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural Environment

Davus pentaloris, commonly known as the Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula, is a visually striking New World species belonging to the Theraphosinae subfamily. Formerly classified under the Cyclosternum genus, it was later reclassified into Davus, a genus that includes other small to medium-sized terrestrial tarantulas. This species is known for its bold black and orange striping on the abdomen, dark legs, and a coppery carapace, giving it a distinctive tiger-like appearance.

The genus name Davus has historical roots in Latin, often referring to a common slave’s name in Roman times, though its significance in taxonomy is unclear. The species name pentaloris likely refers to a characteristic pattern or geographic origin associated with the species.

Natural Range & Habitat

Davus pentaloris is native to Guatemala and parts of southern Mexico, where it inhabits tropical forests and humid grasslands. Unlike deep-burrowing species, it is an opportunistic terrestrial tarantula, meaning it will make use of natural hideouts like leaf litter, logs, and abandoned burrows rather than digging extensive tunnels itself. It is commonly found in moist, shaded areas where humidity levels remain stable throughout the year.

Its habitat consists of moderate temperatures, seasonal rainfall, and high humidity, making it essential for keepers to replicate these conditions in captivity.

Behavior & Temperament

Unlike more defensive New World species, Davus pentaloris is generally considered skittish rather than aggressive. It is a fast-moving species that prefers to retreat rather than stand its ground when threatened. While it does possess urticating hairs, it is not known to be a heavy hair-kicker, instead relying on speed and hiding to avoid predators.

Though it is not overly defensive, D. pentaloris can be unpredictable when disturbed, often making sudden bursts of speed. As a result, handling is not recommended, as its small size and quick movements can make it difficult to control.

In captivity, it is known to web extensively around its hide, making for an engaging display tarantula. While it may not always be visible, it frequently emerges to hunt, making it an active species that provides interesting behaviors for keepers to observe.

Adaptability & Captive Care

Despite its moderate size, Davus pentaloris is a hardy and adaptable tarantula, making it suitable for both intermediate and experienced keepers. Below are its primary care requirements:

• Enclosure: A small to medium terrestrial setup with ample hiding spaces. A 10”x10” enclosure is sufficient for adults, but they will also use vertical spaces if available.

• Substrate: A moisture-retaining substrate such as coconut fiber or organic soil, at least 2-3 inches deep to allow for light burrowing.

Providing bark, cork hides, or artificial burrows will encourage natural behaviors and give the tarantula a sense of security. While they are not obligate burrowers, they will web up their surroundings extensively, adding to their appeal as display species.

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. 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 Davus pentaloris in Captivity

Breeding Davus pentaloris (Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula) is relatively straightforward compared to many other species, as they tend to be receptive and produce moderate to large egg sacs. With their striking coloration and active nature, captive breeding is essential to maintain healthy populations in the hobby while ensuring that wild specimens remain protected.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males mature within 2–3 years, developing enlarged pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females take 3–4 years to reach reproductive maturity.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before introducing the male to reduce defensive reactions. Some breeders have noted higher success rates when humidity is slightly increased before pairing.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male at night, when they are more active.

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

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

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

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilized, the female will produce an egg sac 4–6 weeks after mating, which is relatively fast compared to other species.

• Maintain temperatures around 75–80°F (24–27°C) with humidity levels of 60–70 percent, ensuring proper ventilation to prevent mold.

• The egg sac typically contains 100–300 eggs, with a high hatch rate.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

• Some breeders choose to pull the egg sac after 30–40 days for artificial incubation.

• If left with the mother, first instar spiderlings will emerge in 6–8 weeks, molting into second instar within 3–4 weeks.

Raising Spiderlings

• D. pentaloris spiderlings are hardy and fast-growing, making them relatively easy to raise.

• Provide moderate substrate depth with ample hiding spaces to encourage natural behaviors.

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

Challenges & Considerations

• Fast and skittish adults: While not overly defensive, D. pentaloris can be quick, making pairing and handling tricky.

• Moderate humidity requirements: Proper balance between moisture and ventilation is needed to prevent mold while maintaining hydration.

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

With their bold tiger-like markings and active nature, Davus pentaloris is an exciting species to breed and keep. By prioritizing captive breeding efforts, we can help ensure that healthy, well-adjusted specimens remain available without impacting wild populations. Every successful breeding project strengthens the future of this species in the hobby and contributes to ethical, sustainable keeping practices.

Final Thoughts

Davus pentaloris (Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula) is a captivating species that brings a burst of color and energy to any collection. Its rapid growth, impressive feeding response, and striking appearance make it a favorite among tarantula enthusiasts. With proper husbandry, including an enclosure with substrate filled 1/2 to 2/3 full (to provide ample burrowing depth while minimizing fall risk), controlled temperature and humidity, and a balanced feeding routine adjusted based on abdomen size—you can maintain 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. 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 dry savanna and scrublands of southern Mexico and Guatemala, Davus pentaloris thrives in habitats that offer well‑draining soil for opportunistic burrowing. Its ability to quickly construct and utilize burrows enables it to escape harsh environmental conditions and avoid predators.

• Sensory & Behavioral Adaptations:
  Like many New World tarantulas, D. pentaloris relies on chemotactile setae to detect vibrations and chemical cues in its environment. Despite its eight eyes, its vision is limited; it uses its sensitive hairs to respond swiftly to potential threats, resulting in rapid defensive behaviors such as kicking urticating hairs when disturbed.

• Feeding & Health Management:
  Maintaining an appropriate body condition is critical. Regularly monitor the tarantula’s abdomen relative to its carapace: if the abdomen is thinner than the widest part of the carapace, more frequent feedings are needed; if it is wider, reduce the feeding frequency to avoid obesity, which can lead to molting complications or even an abdomen rupture. Always wait until the tarantula’s fangs are solid black and its exoskeleton is fully hardened (Spiderlings: 24–48 hours; Juveniles: 3–7 days; Adults: 5–10 days post-molt) before feeding.

• Etymology & Genus Relevance:
  The genus name Davus reflects a reclassification that distinguishes these species from other New World tarantulas based on subtle morphological differences. The species epithet pentaloris refers to characteristic markings on the tarantula’s legs and abdomen. These nomenclatural details are important for proper identification and help distinguish D. pentaloris from similar species, such as Davus fasciatus, which is typically darker and originates from Costa Rica.

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