Brazilian Black Tarantula

Grammostola pulchra Care Guide

The Brazilian Black Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Today we’re exploring the Brazilian Black Tarantula, a New World, ground-dwelling species celebrated for its deep, velvety black appearance. This species has become a favorite among tarantula keepers not only because of its striking look but also due to its hardy nature and calm temperament. While taxonomic debates abound, with many specimens identified as Grammostola pulchra and others as Grammostola quirogai, the essential care and behavior of these spiders remain consistent. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned keeper, the Brazilian Black offers an excellent blend of ease of care and captivating aesthetics.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Grammostola pulchra (with some specimens also labeled as Grammostola quirogai)

• Common Names: Brazilian Black Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Native Range: South America – primarily in Brazil (for G. pulchra) and Uruguay (for G. quirogai); both populations come from essentially the same region, separated by a large river

• Size: Females can reach up to 6–7 inches in diagonal leg span; males are generally smaller

• Growth Rate: Medium (with a slower rate as they age)

• Life Expectancy: Females up to 30 years; males have a much shorter lifespan

• Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

What Makes the Brazilian Black Tarantula So Special?

The Brazilian Black Tarantula is famous for its deep, velvety black exoskeleton that may appear muted during premolt but truly pops after a fresh molt under proper lighting. Its robust and thick body, paired with a dramatic feeding response, makes it a favorite among enthusiasts. Furthermore, taxonomic confusion, stemming from the nearly identical appearance of G. pulchra and G. quirogai, adds an intriguing layer to its history. This confusion is partly due to differences in export policies between Brazil and Uruguay and the resulting challenges in breeding these species in captivity. Regardless, their gentle temperament and ease of care continue to make them a standout choice.

A Species at Risk

Habitat destruction and strict export policies in Brazil have led some dealers to import specimens from Uruguay. This situation, coupled with taxonomic mislabeling, has created challenges for breeders attempting to successfully breed these tarantulas in captivity. For this reason, it’s advisable to source your tarantulas from reputable dealers offering captive-bred specimens.

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural Environment

Grammostola pulchra, commonly known as the Brazilian Black Tarantula, is one of the most sought-after species in the tarantula hobby due to its striking jet-black coloration, calm demeanor, and long lifespan. Originally described by Mello-Leitão in 1921, this New World terrestrial species belongs to the Theraphosinae subfamily and is known for its slow growth but exceptional hardiness in captivity.

The genus name Grammostola is derived from Greek, with "gramma" meaning "letter" or "mark" and "stolos" meaning "army" or "expedition," possibly referring to subtle patterning in some species within the genus. The species name pulchra comes from Latin, meaning "beautiful," a fitting description for this tarantula's velvety black appearance.

Natural Range & Habitat

Grammostola pulchra is native to Brazil and Uruguay, where it inhabits grasslands, scrublands, and open plains. Unlike deep-burrowing species, G. pulchra is an opportunistic burrower, meaning it will use natural hideouts, shallow burrows, or shelters under logs and rocks rather than constructing extensive underground tunnels.

This species thrives in moderate temperatures with seasonal variations, tolerating a range of conditions but preferring a mildly humid, well-ventilated environment. Its adaptability to fluctuating conditions makes it one of the hardiest tarantulas in captivity.

Behavior & Temperament

Renowned for its docile nature and calm temperament, G. pulchra is often regarded as one of the best tarantulas for beginner keepers. It is not prone to flicking urticating hairs or displaying defensive behavior, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a relaxed species.

While generally slow-moving, G. pulchra can become more active during feeding or when exploring its enclosure. It has a strong feeding response but is known to go on extended fasting periods, especially before molting. Unlike more nervous or skittish species, this tarantula will often sit calmly in one spot for long periods, adding to its reputation as an easy-to-manage species.

Though it is considered one of the best tarantulas for handling, all handling should still be done with caution, as falls from even a short height can be dangerous due to its heavy-bodied structure.

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—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 room temperatures between 68°F and 74°F (20-23°C), with slight increases possible during warmer months.

• Humidity: Aim for moderate humidity. Spiderlings benefit from a slightly damp substrate, while adults do best with a generally dry substrate and only occasional dampening of one area.

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 Grammostola pulchra in Captivity

Breeding Grammostola pulchra (Brazilian Black Tarantula) is a slow but rewarding process, as this species has long maturation times and relatively small egg sacs compared to other tarantulas. Captive breeding is crucial to maintain healthy populations in the hobby, especially since G. pulchra is protected in Brazil, making exports of wild specimens illegal.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically mature within 5–8 years, developing tibial hooks and enlarged pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females take significantly longer, often 8–12 years, before reaching reproductive maturity.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before pairing to minimize defensive reactions. Some breeders also suggest a cooling period before mating to mimic seasonal breeding cues.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male at night, when tarantulas are 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 percent to support egg sac development.

• The egg sac typically contains 100–300 eggs, making it smaller compared to many other 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, first instar spiderlings will emerge in 8–10 weeks, molting into second instar within 3–4 weeks.

Raising Spiderlings

• G. pulchra spiderlings are slow-growing but hardy, requiring patience from breeders.

• Provide moderate substrate depth with proper ventilation to encourage healthy development.

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

Challenges & Considerations

• Slow maturation: G. pulchra takes many years to mature, meaning breeding projects require a long-term commitment.

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

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

• Potential Species Misidentification: Breeding G. pulchra is complicated by the fact that some specimens in the hobby may actually be Grammostola quirogai or other similar black tarantulas from the region. These species may not be able to interbreed, and more research and DNA testing are needed to fully understand the differences between them. Breeders should ensure that both the male and female are the same species - either G. pulchra or G. quirogai - before attempting to pair them.

With its striking jet-black coloration and docile temperament, Grammostola pulchra is one of the most sought-after tarantulas in the hobby. Because exports from Brazil are illegal, captive breeding is the only way to ensure sustainable populations. By focusing on ethically bred, verified specimens, we can help preserve this species in the hobby and prevent confusion with similar-looking tarantulas. Every successful breeding project strengthens the future of G. pulchra and supports responsible tarantula keeping.

Final Thoughts

The Brazilian Black Tarantula (Grammostola pulchra) is widely considered one of the best pet tarantulas, thanks to its stunning solid-black appearance, gentle temperament, and ease of care. Its long lifespan (up to 20-30 years for females) makes it a long-term commitment, but for those seeking a low-maintenance, visually striking, and beginner-friendly species, G. pulchra is an outstanding choice.

Although it grows slowly, its docile nature, hardiness, and adaptability make it one of the most rewarding species to keep, whether for beginners or experienced hobbyists alike. With proper care and patience, this tarantula will thrive in captivity, providing years of enjoyment as a calm and majestic addition to any collection.

Additional Recommendations:
For enclosures, you might consider Tarantula Cribs with the affiliate code TTC10 for a 10% discount, and I suggest using Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate. For purchasing tarantulas online, a great option is Spider Shoppe — just use code TTC10 for 10% off. Also, check out the Dealer & Discounts section on my website for a list of other recommended dealers with discount codes.