Theraphosa apophysis Care Sheet
Welcome to the world of Eight Legged Beauties, where we turn fuzzy fear into fascination! Today we’re shining the spotlight on one of the giants of the hobby — Theraphosa apophysis, better known as the Pinkfoot Goliath Birdeater. Massive in size, bold in presence, and requiring respect, this tarantula is a show-piece for serious keepers.
Meet the Species
Scientific name: Theraphosa apophysis
Common name: Pinkfoot Goliath Birdeater Tarantula
Type: Terrestrial / fossorial (burrower)
Native to: Venezuela, Colombia and Brazil (northern South America)
Adult size: Among the largest tarantulas — leg spans up to ~9–11 inches in some reports.
Temperament: Skittish, defensive, very fast; can flick extremely irritating Type III urticating hairs when disturbed.
Lifespan: Females may reach ~15–25+ years; males significantly shorter (various reports).
Experience level: Intermediate → Advanced (due to size, defensive nature, and husbandry demands)
Fun Fact:
The “pinkfoot” name comes from the subtly pink-to-rose colored tarsi (feet) on each leg when they are young and in adulthood they retain a faint pink hue — a unique trait among their giant cousins.
Setting Up Their Home
In the wild, the Pinkfoot Goliath inhabits deep burrows in tropical forest-floor habitats in northern South America — soft soil, high humidity, and ample cover.
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 60-80% Keep mainly dry substrate; lightly mist or overflow water dish occasionally.
Ventilation High Proper airflow prevents mold.
Pro Tip:
Maintain a moist substrate base (burrow layer) and a slightly drier surface. This mimics the natural retreat space of T. apophysis and helps avoid issues from too much surface moisture.
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 is a true giant tarantula — one that commands respect.
• Spiderlings: Very skittish, fast to burrow, may flick hairs at minimal disturbance.
• Adults: Tend to remain in burrows or hides; may still bolt or show threat poses when disturbed.
• Handling: Strongly discouraged — due to size, strength, speed, and the severity of the urticating hairs.
Observation tip:
If you see blocked burrow entrances, reduced activity, or a thick web “doorway,” your T. apophysis may be preparing for a molt — give it quiet and minimal disturbance until clear.
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
Theraphosa apophysis (Pinkfoot Goliath) is a towering heavyweight in the tarantula hobby — awe-inspiring in size and presence. It’s not for casual keepers, but for the enthusiast prepared for the challenge. If given the right deep substrate, stable humidity, warm temps, and respect for its nature (and sizing), this spider can become a remarkable display specimen and long-term companion. Treat it with care, observe it more than handling it — and you’ll enjoy one of the most magnificent tarantulas the hobby has to offer.