Megaphobema velvetosoma Care Sheet
Welcome to the world of Eight Legged Beauties, where we turn fuzzy fear into fascination!
Today we’re introducing a big, velvety ground-dwelling spider from the rainforest — Megaphobema velvetosoma, better known as the Ecuadorian Brown Velvet Tarantula. With its plush brown coat and powerful build, this species feels like a wild, living velvet duvet — a true display specimen for keepers who love gentle giants with presence.
Meet the Species
Scientific name: Megaphobema velvetosoma
Common name: Ecuadorian Brown Velvet, Brown Velvet Birdeater
Type: Terrestrial / fossorial (ground‑dwelling)
Native to: Ecuador (and possibly Peru)
Adult size: Up to ~9-10 in according to trade sources.
Temperament: Moderately defensive, slow-moving, strong build; often described as similar to large Theraphosa in behavior.
Lifespan: Not well-documented in hobby sources, but likely similar to other large New‑World tarantulas (females potentially 10–15+ years).
Experience level: Intermediate → Advanced (because of size, strength, and enclosure demands)
Fun Fact:
Despite its name, the “velvet” appearance comes from dense, short hairs that give it a plush, soft look — but don’t let that fool you, this is a powerful tarantula with serious presence.
Setting Up Their Home
In the wild, M. velvetosoma is found in forested areas of Ecuador, where it may burrow into loose soil or use cover objects on the forest floor.
Enclosure Tips
• For spiderlings: Use a small acrylic box, ~3× leg span wide.
• For juveniles: Medium terrestrial enclosure, width ~3–4× leg span.
• For adults: Larger terrestrial setup, width ~3–4× (or more) leg span; height kept modest to avoid fall risk.
• Orientation: Wider than tall — emphasizes horizontal space over height.
• Security: Ensure a tight-fitting lid, well-drilled ventilation holes; these spiders can be escape artists.
Substrate
Use about ½ to ¾ 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 73-82°F Room temp is usually fine. Avoid heat lamps or direct sunlight.
Humidity 80% Keep mainly dry substrate; lightly mist or overflow water dish occasionally.
Ventilation High Proper airflow prevents mold.
Pro Tip:
Use substrate that stays damp at the bottom but allows evaporation from the top — this mimics its natural environment and helps prevent waterlogging.
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
• Spiderlings: May dig or hide early on; somewhat shy but curious.
• Adults: Calm but can be defensive; their size gives them a strong presence, but they aren’t typically aggressive for no reason.
• Handling: Not recommended — due to size and strength, handling could stress them or even injure the spider.
Observation tip:
Watch for digging behavior or substrate rearrangement — these indicate your tarantula is establishing a burrow and getting comfortable with its home.
Common Challenges
Keeping substrate deep and moist without over-wetting
Providing a large, stable enclosure — large tarantulas need space and strength from their housing
Ensuring secure lid — they are strong when exploring
Adjusting feeding properly because they grow large and eat voraciously at times
Final Thoughts
Megaphobema velvetosoma (Ecuadorian Brown Velvet) is a truly majestic and powerful tarantula. Its plush-looking coat, large size, and grounded behavior make it a showpiece for any serious keeper. With proper care — a spacious, secure enclosure, deep moist substrate, and the right feeding schedule — this species can thrive and remain a beautiful, long-lived member of your collection.