Nhandu coloratovillosus 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 bold contrast-striped charmer — Nhandu coloratovillosus, better known as the Brazilian Black & White Tarantula. With its dramatic black and white leg banding and thick reddish setae on the abdomen, this species brings both style and substance to the hobby.
Meet the Species
Scientific name: Nhandu coloratovillosus
Common name: Brazilian Black & White Tarantula
Type: Terrestrial (New World)
Native to: Brazil (and possibly parts of Paraguay)
Adult size: Approximately ~6-7” leg span in many reports
Temperament: Nervous to skittish to somewhat defensive; prone to flicking urticating hairs when disturbed
Lifespan: Females ~13–15 years; Males ~3–4 years
Experience level: Beginner → Intermediate (with respect for hair-flicking and quick movements)
Fun Fact:
This tarantula’s striking black-and-white leg banding makes quite the statement—and the dense red hairs on its abdomen give it a “fuzzy bombshell” look that lives up to its “bombardier” nickname.
Setting Up Their Home
In the wild, Nhandu coloratovillosus lives in grasslands and tropical open areas of Brazil, often in leaf litter or shallow burrows rather than deep tunnels.
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 ⅓ to ½ 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 75-85°F Room temp is usually fine. Avoid heat lamps or direct sunlight.
Humidity 65-80% Keep mainly dry substrate; lightly mist or overflow water dish occasionally.
Ventilation High Proper airflow prevents mold.
Pro Tip:
Keep the bottom layer of substrate slightly moist and the top layers dry. This mimics the natural burrow conditions.
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
This species is known for being fast, skittish, and sometimes defensive—especially when young or acclimating.
• Spiderlings: Very nervous; likely to bolt or flick hairs at minimal disturbance.
• Adults: Often calmer, but still quite active; may prefer to hide rather than be out in the open for long periods.
• Handling: Strongly not recommended—due to quick movements, large size potential, and substantial urticating hairs.
Observation tip:
Look for new tunnels, substrate disturbance, or blocked hide entrances — often a sign your tarantula is gearing up for a molt. Give it quiet time and minimal disturbance.
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
Nhandu coloratovillosus is a stunning and robust terrestrial tarantula with eye-catching color and strong presence. While it demands respect—with its hair-flicking defense and fast movements—it also offers a rewarding and visually memorable experience for keepers willing to provide space, appropriate conditions, and gentle observation rather than frequent handling. With proper care, you can enjoy this beauty for many years.