Vitalius chromatus Care Guide

Brazilian Red and White Tarantula

Revision Date: March 2025

Introduction

Vitalius chromatus, formerly classified as Nhandu chromatus, is a large, striking terrestrial tarantula native to Brazil and Paraguay. Commonly known as the Brazilian Red and White Tarantula, this species is highly regarded in the hobby for its bold white striping, deep red abdomen, rapid growth, and active nature.

While often considered a beginner-friendly tarantula due to its hardy nature and simple husbandry, keepers should be aware that V. chromatus is skittish, defensive, and possesses some of the most irritating urticating hairs among New World species.

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Vitalius chromatus (formerly Nhandu chromatus)

• Common Names: Brazilian Red and White Tarantula, White Striped Bird-Eater

• Type: Terrestrial

• Category: New World

• Native Range: Brazil and Paraguay

• Size: Diagonal leg span up to 6–7 inches (16.5 cm)

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Life Expectancy:

  • Females: 10–12 years

  • Males: ~4 years

• Recommended Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Taxonomy & Research Update

Vitalius chromatus, commonly known as the Brazilian Red & White Tarantula, is a striking terrestrial species native to Brazil. First described by Mello-Leitão in 1923, it belongs to the Vitalius genus, which includes several large, hardy, and fast-growing New World species. Often mistaken for Nhandu chromatus due to its similar appearance, V. chromatus is differentiated by subtle morphological traits and taxonomic distinctions.

Although Vitalius species are not as widely represented in the hobby as Brachypelma or Tliltocatl, V. chromatus has gained popularity for its impressive size, bold coloration, and strong feeding response. Its combination of striking looks and active behavior makes it a fascinating addition to any collection.

What Makes Vitalius chromatus So Special?

Few tarantulas command attention like V. chromatus. This species is known for its bold black legs contrasted by bright white banding, with a striking reddish-orange abdomen that stands out against its darker tones. This vibrant coloration makes it a visually stunning species that often remains on display, making it a great showcase tarantula.

In addition to its appearance, V. chromatus is an incredibly active species with a voracious feeding response. It eagerly pounces on prey, making feeding sessions particularly entertaining. While not highly defensive, it can be skittish, often choosing to bolt rather than stand its ground when disturbed. Due to its fast movements and tendency to kick urticating hairs when threatened, it is best suited for keepers with some experience handling more energetic terrestrial tarantulas.

Natural Habitat & Enclosure Considerations

In its natural habitat, Vitalius chromatus is found in the humid forests and grasslands of Brazil, where it burrows in soft soil or takes refuge under natural debris. While primarily a terrestrial species, it is known to exhibit semi-burrowing behavior when given the opportunity.

In captivity, a well-ventilated, terrestrial enclosure with a deep substrate layer is ideal to allow for natural burrowing behavior. Providing a sturdy hide, such as a cork bark shelter or a partially buried structure, will help the tarantula feel secure. While this species does not require excessive humidity, maintaining moderate moisture in a portion of the substrate and providing a water dish will support its hydration needs. Due to its large size and active nature, V. chromatus benefits from a spacious enclosure with plenty of floor space to roam.

With the right setup, this species will thrive, displaying its bold colors and engaging behaviors, making it a rewarding addition to any tarantula collection.

Behavior & Temperament

Vitalius chromatus is an active, fast-moving tarantula with a bold feeding response and a tendency to bolt when startled. It’s not the type of spider that sits still for long, making it an exciting species to observe but one that requires some caution during maintenance.

• Defensive Behavior: While not the most aggressive species, V. chromatus won’t hesitate to kick urticating hairs when it feels threatened. These hairs are some of the most irritating among New World tarantulas, so avoid unnecessary disturbances.

• Escape Risk: This tarantula is quick—really quick. When opening the enclosure, it’s important to move slowly and deliberately, as sudden movements can cause it to dash unpredictably.

• Visibility: Juveniles may burrow more frequently, but as they mature, they tend to stay out in the open. This makes adults great display tarantulas, especially given their striking coloration.

• Handling: Not a good idea. Between their speed, tendency to flick hairs, and skittish nature, handling V. chromatus is more trouble than it’s worth. It’s best to admire this one from a distance.

This species is an excellent choice for keepers who enjoy an active, visually stunning tarantula, but it does require careful enclosure maintenance to prevent any unexpected sprints.

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, so 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: 68–76°F (20–24°C)

• Humidity: Moderate (65–75%)

• Ventilation: Crucial to prevent mold—cross-ventilation is recommended.

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 Vitalius chromatus in Captivity

Breeding Vitalius chromatus, commonly known as the Brazilian Red and White Tarantula, is a rewarding endeavor for enthusiasts. Native to Brazil, this species is admired for its striking black body and vibrant red abdomen setae.

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. 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 500 to 700 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

• V. chromatus 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: V. chromatus is known for its generally docile nature, though individual temperaments can vary. Caution is 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: V. chromatus possesses urticating hairs, which can cause irritation. Handling should be minimized to reduce stress and potential exposure to these hairs.

With their striking appearance and manageable care requirements, Vitalius chromatus has become a popular species among tarantula enthusiasts. Their moderate growth rate and relatively high reproductive output make captive breeding essential to maintain healthy populations in the hobby. By focusing on these efforts, we can reduce the need for wild-caught specimens, ensuring the sustainability of this remarkable species for future generations.

Final Thoughts

Vitalius chromatus is an active, large, and visually stunning tarantula that makes an excellent display species. While it is relatively easy to care for, its speed, defensive nature, and highly irritating urticating hairs make it better suited for keepers with some experience. The Brazilian Red and White Tarantulaoffers something unique compared to other beginner-friendly terrestrial species, such as Grammostola pulchripes or Aphonopelma chalcodes. While just as hardy and forgiving in husbandry, V. chromatus stands out due to its larger size, striking color patterns, and highly active and skittish nature. It is often compared to Acanthoscurria geniculata due to similar appearance and behaviors, yet V. chromatus is distinguishable by its distinct red accents and vibrant white striping. This tarantula is ideal for hobbyists seeking an impressive and attractive species that's rewarding to keep—but one that also demands mindful care due to its potent hairs and nervous temperament.

Additional Recommendations

For the best care, I recommend:

• Enclosures: Tarantula Cribs (Use Code TTC10 for 10% Off)

• Substrate: Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude

• Live Tarantulas: Spider Shoppe (Use Code TTC10 for 10% Off)

For additional trusted resources, check out the Dealer & Discounts section on my website.

Further Reading & Research

For more information on the reclassification of Vitalius chromatus and other South American tarantulas, refer to:

• Journal of Arachnology

• ZooKeys: Taxonomic Revisions in Theraphosidae

• CITES Regulations on Brazilian Tarantulas

By supporting captive breeding efforts and responsible tarantula care, we help ensure that species like Vitalius chromatus thrive in the hobby without impacting wild populations.