Tliltocatl albopilosus Care Guide

The Curly Hair Tarantula / Honduran Curly Hair / Nicaraguan Curly Hair Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Tliltocatl albopilosus, formerly known as Brachypelma albopilosum, is a staple species in the tarantula hobby. Commonly known as the Curly Hair Tarantula, it is celebrated for its long, wiry, curly setae that give it a uniquely fluffy appearance. Over the years, the hobby has recognized two forms: the Honduran Curly Hair (often seen in the pet trade) and the Nicaraguan Curly Hair (believed to be the thoroughbred form). Although definitive DNA research is still pending, reputable breeders now strive to offer true Nicaraguan specimens. Regardless of these taxonomic debates, both forms share nearly identical care requirements, making this species an excellent, hardy, and beginner-friendly choice.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Tliltocatl albopilosus (formerly Brachypelma albopilosum)

• Common Names: Curly Hair Tarantula, Honduran Curly Hair Tarantula, Nicaraguan Curly Hair Tarantula

• Type: Terrestrial, Semi-Burrowing

• Category: New World

• Endemic Location: Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica

• Body Length: Approximately 3” (8 cm)

• Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Approximately 6.5” (17 cm)

• Urticating Hairs: Yes, Types I & III

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: Up to 25 years

  • Males: Around 5 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner

Taxonomy & Research Update

In the hobby, the Curly Hair Tarantula has long been popular under the name Honduran Curly Hair. However, many believe that these specimens have been subject to accidental or intentional crossbreeding with closely related species, thereby muddying their bloodlines. Today, the Nicaraguan Curly Hair is touted as the thoroughbred form, if purchased from a reputable breeder, you’re likely to get a true Nicaraguan specimen. Although definitive DNA-based research is still underway, visual differences such as variation in coloration (with some specimens appearing more golden-brown and others darker) have been noted. For practical care purposes, however, both forms are managed in the same way.

What Makes Tliltocatl albopilosus So Special?

The Curly Hair Tarantula is cherished for its distinctive, fluffy appearance, thanks to its long, wiry setae. As spiderlings, they are small and endearing, and as they mature, their hardy, docile temperament makes them an excellent addition for beginners. They are generally slow moving and relaxed as adults, rarely exhibiting overt defensive behavior, which makes them a favorite among keepers and a great ambassador for the hobby.

Natural Habitat & What That Means for Enclosure Setup

Native to the rainforests of Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, often near rivers, at the base of trees, or in cleared areas, T. albopilosus is adapted to a semi‑burrowing lifestyle. In captivity, it’s essential to replicate these conditions by providing a deep, well-draining substrate that allows for natural burrowing and maintains a moisture gradient. This approach helps mimic the wild environment, offering a secure space while minimizing fall risks.

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.

• 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 (such as a Medium Slider Crib, 6" Tarantula Cube, 8" Tarantula Cube, or Medium Cuboid) that is at least 3–4× the tarantula’s leg span.

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure half full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude. This setup provides sufficient depth for burrowing while minimizing the risk of fall damage.

• Humidity: Keep the substrate mostly dry with a full water dish; you can occasionally overflow one corner to create a slightly damp area.

• Additional Features: Provide a half cork bark round for a secure hide and include vertical branches, cork bark pieces, or small fake plants to serve as web anchors—helping the tarantula build natural web tunnels.

Adults

• Enclosure Size: Use a large enclosure (such as a Large Slider Crib, 12" Cube, 18" Cube, or Terrestrial XL) that is at least 3× the tarantula’s leg span (ideally 4–5× for enhanced natural behavior, but be cautious of escape risks).

• Substrate: Fill the enclosure half full with Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude to provide ample depth for burrowing while minimizing fall distance.

• Additional Features: Include a secure hide (preferably a half cork bark round), a shallow water dish, and tasteful decorations such as vertical branches or cork bark pieces leaned diagonally. Ensure the enclosure is a horizontal rectangle (wider than it is deep) with secure ventilation and a tight lid to prevent escapes.

Note: Consider using Tarantula Cribs with the affiliate code TTC10 to save 10% on your enclosure purchases.

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 natural 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

The Curly Hair Tarantula is known for its hardy and docile nature as an adult, making it an excellent choice for beginners. While spiderlings and juveniles may be more skittish and prone to burrowing deeply when disturbed, mature specimens are generally calm and spend a significant amount of time out on display. They rarely exhibit overt defensive behaviors unless provoked, though they may occasionally flick their urticating hairs if stressed. Overall, this species is appreciated for its reliable temperament and ease of care.

Breeding Tliltocatl albopilosus in Captivity

Breeding Tliltocatl albopilosus (Curly Hair Tarantula) is a rewarding endeavor, especially for enthusiasts looking to propagate this docile and hardy species. Native to Central America, particularly Nicaragua and Honduras, this species is renowned for its distinctive curly setae and ease of care.

Sexual Maturity & Pairing

• Male Maturity: Males typically reach maturity within 2–3 years, identifiable by longer legs and the development of bulbous pedipalps used 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. Slightly increasing humidity prior to pairing may 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 similarly 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 65–75%, ensuring adequate ventilation to prevent mold growth.

• An egg sac can contain a substantial number of eggs, with reports indicating clutches ranging from 300 to 500 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

• T. albopilosus spiderlings exhibit a moderate growth rate and require stable humidity with proper ventilation.

• Provide enclosures with sufficient depth to accommodate their burrowing nature, along with proper hiding spots.

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

Challenges & Considerations

• Temperament: T. albopilosus is known for its docile nature, making it less prone to defensive behaviors. However, caution is still advised during maintenance to prevent escapes or accidental injury.

• Humidity and Ventilation: Maintaining proper humidity levels is crucial, as spiderlings are particularly susceptible to desiccation. Ensure enclosures are well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.

• Urticating Hairs: T. albopilosus possesses urticating hairs, which can cause irritation. While they are generally docile, handling should be minimized to reduce stress and potential exposure to these hairs.

With their hardy nature and gentle temperament, Tliltocatl albopilosus has become a staple species for beginners and experienced keepers alike. Their high reproductive output ensures a steady supply of captive-bred specimens, reducing pressure on wild populations. By prioritizing captive breeding efforts, we help maintain sustainable populations while making this wonderful species more accessible to the hobby.

Final Thoughts

Tliltocatl albopilosus (Curly Hair Tarantula) is a time‑honored species in the tarantula hobby. Its unique, fluffy appearance combined with its hardy, easy‑care nature makes it an excellent choice for beginners. With proper husbandry, including an enclosure with substrate filled half full (to provide ample burrowing depth while minimizing fall risk), controlled humidity, and a balanced feeding routine adjusted based on abdomen size, this tarantula will remain healthy and vibrant for many years. Its long lifespan and gentle demeanor make it a cherished addition to any collection.

Additional Recommendations:
For enclosures, consider Tarantula Cribs with the affiliate code TTC10 for a 10% discount, and use Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude for substrate. For purchasing tarantulas and supplies online, check out Spider Shoppe (use code TTC10 for 10% off). Also, visit the Dealer & Discounts section on my website for a curated list of recommended dealers and discount codes.

Additional Scientific Information

• Taxonomic Insights:
  The Curly Hair Tarantula has long been a cornerstone of the New World tarantula hobby. Ongoing debates focus on whether the Honduran form is a hybrid and if the Nicaraguan form represents a true, thoroughbred species. Visual differences, such as variations in coloration (with some specimens appearing more golden-brown and others darker), have been noted, though DNA-based research is still emerging.

• Ecological Role & Adaptations:
  Native to rainforests near rivers and at the base of trees in Honduras, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica, this species adapts well to a semi‑burrowing lifestyle. In the wild, they benefit from the natural moisture gradients present in their habitat. In captivity, offering a substrate that is filled half full replicates these conditions while minimizing fall risk—a key factor in their care.

• Feeding & Health Management:
  Monitoring the abdomen size relative to the carapace is critical. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, causing molting complications or, in severe cases, an abdomen rupture. Adjust feeding frequency based on whether the abdomen is thinner (requiring more frequent feedings) or wider (requiring fewer feedings) than the carapace’s widest part. Always wait for the tarantula’s fangs to be solid black and its exoskeleton to be fully hardened post-molt before feeding.

• Etymology and Relevance of the Genus Name Tliltocatl
  The genus name Tliltocatl is derived from the Nahuatl language, and it is often interpreted as meaning "black spider." This reclassification, which moved certain species formerly placed in the genus Brachypelma to Tliltocatl, was introduced to resolve longstanding taxonomic confusion. By adopting an indigenous term, the name not only reflects the often dark coloration of these tarantulas but also emphasizes their cultural and biological significance in their native regions. This nomenclatural update is crucial for enhancing our understanding of their ecology, evolutionary history, and conservation needs.

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