Lasiodora klugi Care Guide

The Bahia Scarlet Birdeater Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Lasiodora klugi, commonly known as the Bahia Scarlet Birdeater, is a striking New World terrestrial tarantula native to the humid forests of Brazil. Closely related to Lasiodora parahybana, this species is known for its massive size, robust build, and deep reddish coloration on the legs and abdomen. While it is an impressive display tarantula, L. klugi is also a voracious eater with a defensive streak, making it better suited for intermediate keepers. Females can live up to 20 years, while males typically reach maturity in around five years.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Lasiodora klugi

• Common Name: Bahia Scarlet Birdeater Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Native Range: Brazil

• Size: Up to 10” (25 cm) DLS

• Growth Rate: Medium to Fast

• Life Expectancy: Females: Up to 20 years / Males: Around 5 years

• Experience Level: Intermediate

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, Types I & III

• Venom Potency: Mild (not medically significant but can cause irritation)

What Makes Lasiodora klugi So Special?

Lasiodora klugi stands out due to its immense size, bold coloration, and incredible feeding response. While it resembles L. parahybana, L. klugi often has a darker overall appearance with more pronounced reddish hues on the legs and abdomen. This species grows rapidly, reaching adulthood within 2-3 years, and is known for its impressive appetite and semi-aggressive nature. Though it is a New World species, it does not hesitate to use its urticating hairs or stand its ground when disturbed.

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural Environment

Lasiodora klugi, commonly known as the Bahia Scarlet Tarantula, is a New World terrestrial species that is often compared to its close relative, Lasiodora parahybana. It is a massive, fast-growing tarantula with a robust build and striking red setae on its abdomen and legs, making it a highly sought-after species in the hobby. Originally described by C.L. Koch in 1841, L. klugi is considered one of the largest tarantulas in the world, capable of reaching 9-10 inches (23-25 cm) in leg span.

The genus name Lasiodora is derived from Greek, meaning "hairy gift", referencing the dense bristles covering its body. The species name klugi honors the German entomologist Johann Christoph Friedrich Klug, known for his contributions to arachnology and entomology.

Behavior & Temperament

While not as defensive as some Old World tarantulas, L. klugi is known for its bold and sometimes unpredictable temperament. It may tolerate some disturbance but can also become defensive quickly, especially as it matures. Like other Lasiodora species, it possesses strong urticating hairs, which it will readily kick when threatened. These hairs can cause significant irritation, so caution is advised when performing maintenance in its enclosure.

This species has a very strong feeding response, often lunging aggressively at prey. It is an active, fast-moving tarantula, making it an exciting species to observe but not ideal for handling. Due to its size and power, it requires a large, well-secured enclosure to prevent escape or injury.

Natural Range & Habitat

Lasiodora klugi is endemic to northeastern Brazil, particularly in the Bahia region, where it inhabits tropical forests and humid lowlands. This species thrives in warm, humid environments, often found burrowing in loose soil or hiding beneath logs and leaf litter.

Although it is capable of burrowing, L. klugi is also known for being highly adaptable, sometimes opting to remain in shallow retreats rather than digging deep burrows. Its natural habitat experiences high temperatures and seasonal rainfall, so maintaining moderate to high humidity with proper ventilation is essential in captivity.

Housing & Substrate – Terrestrial Species

Spiderlings

• Enclosure Size: Use a small enclosure (minimum of three times the tarantula’s leg span) such as a Sling Crib, 3" Tarantula Cube, Small Slider Crib, Small Cuboid, Terrestrial Sling Crib, Slider Crib Mini, or Cuboid Mini.

• 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 Slider Crib, 6" Tarantula Cube, 8" Tarantula Cube, or Medium Cuboid (minimum of 3–4 times the tarantula’s leg span).

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure half full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to allow for burrowing and to minimize fall risks.

• 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 and include a shallow water dish.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: Use a Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, or Terrestrial XL (at least three times the tarantula’s leg span, ideally 4–5× for more natural movement).

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure half full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to provide burrowing depth and reduce fall risks.

• Additional Features: Include a secure hide, water dish, and tasteful decorations. Ensure the enclosure has a horizontal layout to accommodate its terrestrial nature.

• Note: Consider using Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10) to save 10% on enclosures.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain ambient temperatures between 68°F and 76°F (20°C to 24°C).

• Humidity: Aim for moderate humidity (65-75%). Ensure that the substrate remains slightly moist in the lower layers but allow the top layers to dry between waterings.

• Ventilation: Ensure proper airflow to prevent stagnant conditions.

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 Lasiodora klugi in Captivity

Breeding Lasiodora klugi (Bahia Scarlet Birdeater) in captivity is a rewarding endeavor, especially given their impressive size and striking appearance. With proper preparation and attention to detail, enthusiasts can successfully propagate this species.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 2–3 years, developing longer legs and, in many species, tibial hooks on the first pair of legs, along with bulbous pedipalps for sperm transfer.

• Female Maturity: Females generally mature around 3–4 years, achieving a robust size indicative of reproductive readiness.

• Pre-Pairing Preparation: We should ensure the female is well-fed before introducing the male to minimize the risk of cannibalism. Some breeders recommend slightly increasing humidity prior to pairing to encourage receptiveness.

Mating Process

• Introduce the male into the female’s enclosure during the evening or nighttime when tarantulas are more active.

• The male will typically perform courtship behaviors, such as tapping or drumming, to signal his presence.

• If receptive, the female may respond with similar behaviors or remain still, allowing the male to approach and attempt copulation.

• After successful mating, promptly remove the male to prevent potential aggression from the female.

Egg Sac Production

• If fertilized, the female may produce an egg sac approximately 4–8 weeks after mating.

• Maintain temperatures around 75–80°F (24–27°C) with humidity levels between 70–80%, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth.

• An egg sac can contain a substantial number of eggs, with reports indicating clutches ranging from 600 to over 1,000 eggs.

Egg Sac Handling (Optional)

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

• If left with the mother, spiderlings (slings) will typically emerge within 6–8 weeks and undergo their first molt to the second instar stage within 3–4 weeks thereafter.

Raising Spiderlings

• L. klugi spiderlings exhibit a medium to fast growth rate and require stable humidity with proper ventilation.

• Provide enclosures with sufficient substrate to accommodate their burrowing behavior and include structures for web attachment.

• Feed them appropriately sized prey, such as pinhead crickets or flightless fruit flies, every 2–3 days to support healthy development.

Challenges & Considerations

• Size and Space Requirements: Given their potential size, ensure enclosures are spacious enough to accommodate their growth and activity levels.

• Feeding Response: L. klugi are known for their strong feeding responses, so caution is advised during maintenance to avoid accidental bites.

• Humidity Sensitivity: Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial, as spiderlings are particularly susceptible to desiccation.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably impressive about Lasiodora klugi. These giants of the tarantula world have a commanding presence, a voracious appetite, and an attitude to match. They’re hardy, fast-growing, and always entertaining to watch, especially when it’s feeding time. If you’re looking for a massive terrestrial species with bold personality and striking coloration, L. klugi is a fantastic choice.

Additional Recommendations

For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs (affiliate code TTC10 for 10% off). Use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate and check out their other bioactive supplies. For tarantulas, check out Spider Shoppe (use code TTC10 for 10% off). Visit the Dealer & Discounts section on my website for a curated list of recommended dealers and discount codes.