Gold Banded Sunburst Dwarf Tarantula

Neischnocolus sp. Panama Care Guide

Gold Banded Sunburst Dwarf Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Neischnocolus sp. Panama, formerly known in the hobby as Ami sp. Panama, is a stunning dwarf tarantula species native to Panama. Commonly referred to as the Gold Banded Sunburst Dwarf Tarantula, this species is known for its intricate gold and blue banding along the legs and its striking coloration. Despite its small size, it exhibits many of the same impressive behaviors as larger species, including burrowing and occasional webbing. With a moderate growth rate and relatively easy care requirements, this species is an excellent choice for beginner keepers looking to explore the world of dwarf tarantulas.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Neischnocolus sp. Panama

• Common Name: Gold Banded Sunburst Dwarf Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Native Range: Panama

• Size: 3” (7.5 cm) DLS

• Growth Rate: Medium-Slow

• Life Expectancy: Females 12 years / Males 3 years

• Experience Level: Beginner

• Urticating Hairs: Yes

• Venom Potency: Mild (not medically significant)

Taxonomy & Research Update

Neischnocolus sp. Panama is a fascinating and somewhat lesser-known tarantula species originating from the forests of Panama. While the Neischnocolus genus has historically been underrepresented in the tarantula hobby, it has gained attention in recent years due to its unique behaviors and appearance. This genus includes several species of small to medium-sized terrestrial tarantulas that are often mistaken for dwarf species due to their compact build.

Currently, Neischnocolus sp. Panama remains undescribed at the species level, meaning it has yet to receive a formal scientific name. However, it has been established in the hobby as a distinct species from Panama, known for its adaptive burrowing tendencies and intriguing coloration. As taxonomic research continues, more details about this species' classification and natural history may emerge.

What Makes Neischnocolus sp. Panama So Special?

What sets Neischnocolus sp. Panama apart from other New World tarantulas is its compact size, fossorial tendencies, and unique coloration. While it may not reach the massive leg spans of some popular species, it makes up for it with its active behavior and strong feeding response.

Unlike many obligate burrowers that remain hidden most of the time, Neischnocolus sp. Panama exhibits a mix of fossorial and opportunistic behavior. While it enjoys creating burrows, it is often seen near the entrance of its retreat, making it an engaging species to observe. Additionally, it is known for its bold feeding response, often striking at prey with impressive speed, making feeding time a highlight for keepers.

The coloration of Neischnocolus sp. Panama is another standout feature. While it doesn’t boast bright colors like some arboreal species, its earthy tones, subtle iridescence, and leg banding give it a unique and appealing look.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

This species is native to the warm, humid forests of Panama, where it likely resides in leaf litter, under logs, or in naturally occurring burrows. Its habitat experiences a seasonal climate with fluctuating humidity levels, meaning captive conditions should replicate a moist but well-ventilated environment.

To properly house Neischnocolus sp. Panama, a terrestrial setup with at least 4-6 inches of substrate is recommended, allowing for burrowing behavior. A secure hide, such as a piece of cork bark or a partially buried structure, should also be provided. Humidity should be maintained at moderate levels, with occasional misting to prevent the substrate from drying out completely. However, excessive moisture should be avoided to prevent mold or fungal growth. A small water dish should always be present for hydration.

While this species is not particularly prone to climbing, a secure enclosure is necessary to prevent escapes, especially since it can move quickly when disturbed. Given its fossorial nature, it is essential to provide an enclosure with enough depth to accommodate its burrowing instincts.

A Species at Risk?

At present, Neischnocolus sp. Panama does not have an official conservation status due to its undescribed nature. However, like many species native to Central and South America, deforestation and habitat loss pose potential threats to its long-term survival. As Panama's rainforests continue to be impacted by agriculture, logging, and urbanization, the availability of suitable habitats for this species may decline.

Another concern is the impact of collection for the pet trade. While captive breeding efforts have increased, there is still the possibility that wild specimens are being removed from their natural environment. Supporting ethical captive breeding and avoiding wild-caught specimens can help ensure that populations remain stable in the wild while still allowing keepers to enjoy this unique species in captivity.

For tarantula enthusiasts looking for a compact, fossorial species with strong feeding responses and engaging behaviors, Neischnocolus sp. Panama is an excellent choice. As more research is conducted and its taxonomic classification is refined, this species may become an even more established and appreciated member of the tarantula hobby.

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.

Note: This species does well in setups that offer both burrowing depth and surface structures for webbing. While it may burrow early in life, many adults spend time on display.

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain ambient temperatures between 72°F and 80°F (22-27°C).

• Humidity: Keep humidity levels around 70-80%, replicating the warm and humid conditions of Panama. Ensure good ventilation to prevent mold.

• Water Dish: Keep one filled at all times, and occasionally overflow one side to create a moisture gradient.

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 Neischnocolus sp. Panama in Captivity

Breeding Neischnocolus sp. Panama (Gold Banded Sunburst Dwarf Tarantula) in captivity is both achievable and rewarding, given their manageable size and relatively straightforward care requirements. With proper preparation and attention to environmental conditions, enthusiasts can successfully propagate this species.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 2–3 years, developing longer legs and 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 72–80°F (22–27°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 50 to 150 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

• Neischnocolus sp. Panama spiderlings exhibit a medium to slow 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

• Feeding Response: Some keepers have observed that Neischnocolus sp. Panama spiderlings may have a less vigorous feeding response compared to other species. Ensuring optimal temperature and humidity can help improve feeding behavior.

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

• Reclusive Behavior: This species tends to be shy and may spend extended periods in its burrow, making regular monitoring essential.

Final Thoughts

Neischnocolus sp. Panama is a captivating dwarf tarantula species, admired for its striking gold and blue banding. They might be small, but they have plenty of personality, and their burrowing habits make them a fascinating species to observe. If you enjoy watching intricate webbing and natural behaviors, this tarantula is a great choice. Their manageable size and hardy nature make them an excellent species for those looking to add a dwarf tarantula to their collection.

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 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.