Lasiodora parahybana Care Sheet
Welcome to the world of Eight Legged Beauties, where we turn fuzzy fear into fascination! Today we’re shining the spotlight on a giant with a gentle side — Lasiodora parahybana, better known as the Salmon Pink / Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater Tarantula. With its massive size, striking salmon-pink hues, and surprising toughness, this species is both a spectacle and a rewarding display spider.
Meet the Species
Scientific name: Lasiodora parahybana
Common name: Salmon Pink Birdeater, Brazilian Salmon Pink
Type: Terrestrial, opportunistic burrower
Native to: Northeastern Brazil, especially the Paraíba / Parahyba region
Adult size: Very large — leg span of 8–10 in often cited
Temperament: Skittish but generally tolerant; may flick urticating hairs when irritated
Lifespan: Females ~10–15 years (or more); males ~3–6 years
Experience level: Beginner → Intermediate (best for keepers who want a large display spider)
Fun Fact:
This species can produce egg sacs with over 2,000 eggs under ideal conditions, making it one of the more fecund large spiders in the hobby.
Setting Up Their Home
In the wild, L. parahybana inhabits tropical forest floor, scrublands, and semi-open areas in northeastern Brazil. It will take advantage of soft soil, roots, and debris, sometimes digging shallow retreats or hiding under logs or bark.
Enclosure Tips
• For spiderlings / slings: Use a small ventilated container (sling crib, small terrarium) at least 3× leg span width; maintain moisture carefully as small ones dry out fast.
• For juveniles: Medium terrestrial enclosure ~3–4× leg span; substrate depth enough for shallow burrowing.
• For adults: Large horizontal terrarium, ideally width 3–5× leg span — but not overly tall to reduce fall risk.
• Orientation: Wider than tall (emphasize horizontal space over height)
• Security: Very tight lid, well-drilled ventilation, no gaps — large species can exploit tiny openings
Substrate
Use about ½ to ⅔ of the enclosure depth of:
Organic topsoil / Terra Aranea (or similar mix)
Keep it firm but diggable
For slings: maintain one slightly damp corner; for adults: mostly dry with a moist retreat zone
Add a hide like cork bark, a fake plant, or half a flowerpot. A shallow water dish is essential, even if rarely used.
Temperature & Humidity
Setting Ideal Range Tips
Temperature 76-82°F Room temp is usually fine. Avoid heat lamps or direct sunlight.
Humidity 60-75% Keep mainly dry substrate; lightly mist or overflow water dish occasionally.
Ventilation High Proper airflow prevents mold.
Pro Tip:
Keep the top substrate dryer while retaining moisture deeper down. Mimicking a forest floor layer helps your tarantula manage its own microclimate.
Feeding Time
Spiderlings
Feed 2× per week
Pinhead crickets, fruit flies, or tiny roaches
Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours
Juveniles
Feed every 7–10 days
2–3 small crickets or one medium roach
Adults
Feed every 2–3 weeks
4–5 large crickets or one adult Dubia roach
Tip:
A healthy tarantula’s abdomen should be roughly the same width as its carapace.
Too plump = overfed. Too thin = time for a snack.
After a molt, always wait until the fangs are black again before offering food.
(Usually 24–48 hrs for slings, up to a week or more for adults.)
Behavior & Temperament
While L. parahybana is a giant, it often surprises with its tolerance and forbearance, especially given its size.
• Spiderlings: Fast, skittish, more prone to digging or hiding
• Adults: More stable, may rest in burrows or hides, tolerant of normal husbandry
• Handling: Strongly discouraged — due to size, strength, and potential for serious harm; this is a hands-off display species
Observation tip:
Increased webbing, blocked retreats, or reduced movement often signals an upcoming molt. Give them privacy and minimal disturbance at that time.
Common Challenges
Too damp: Mold and mites increase ventilation
Too dry: Dehydration or failed molts
Overfeeding: Lethargy or injury from bloated abdomen
Frequent handling: Stress and hair kicking
Also watch for escape attempts; this species is fast and can dart out if the lid isn't secure.
Final Thoughts
Lasiodora parahybana is a majestic giant in the hobby — bold, colorful, and surprisingly forgiving for a beast of its size. While it demands space and respect, it rewards you with spectacular display presence and long-term companionship. It’s ideal for keepers who prefer observation over handling. With proper housing, stable conditions, careful feeding, and minimal disturbance, this species can thrive and be a crown jewel in your collection for years to come.