Vitalius chromatus (formerly Nhandu chromatus) 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 beauty from Brazil — Vitalius chromatus (formerly Nhandu chromatus), also known as the Brazilian Red & White Tarantula. With striking white banding, deep red hues, and a fast, active nature, this species is both gorgeous and full of surprises.
Meet the Species
Scientific name: Vitalius chromatus (formerly Nhandu chromatus)
Common name: Brazilian Red & White Tarantula, White Striped Bird-Eater
Type: Terrestrial
Native to: Brazil and Paraguay
Adult size: Diagonal leg span up to ~6–7″ (16.5 cm)
Temperament: Active, skittish, defensive (fast to bolt, will kick urticating hairs)
Lifespan: Females ~10–12 years; males ~4 years
Experience level: Beginner → Intermediate (for keepers comfortable with faster, more defensive species)
Fun Fact:
This species sports bold white striping and a deep red abdomen; a dramatic color contrast that makes it one of the most visually striking terrestrial tarantulas in South America.
Setting Up Their Home
In the wild, Vitalius chromatus lives in humid forests and grasslands of Brazil, where it burrows in soft soil or takes refuge under natural debris.
Enclosure Tips
For spiderlings: Small acrylic sling box, no smaller than 3× leg span
For juveniles: Medium enclosure (3–4× leg span wide)
For adults: Large terrestrial enclosure, ideally 3–5× leg span in width
Orientation: Wider-than-tall layout to reduce fall risk
Security: Tight-fitting lid, proper ventilation, no gaps
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 68–76°F Room temp is usually fine. Avoid heat lamps or direct sunlight.
Humidity 65–75% Lightly moisten one corner of the substrate. Don’t overdo it!
Ventilation High Proper airflow prevents mold.
Pro Tip:
Keep the bottom layer slightly damp and the top layer dry it mimics how they’d burrow into cooler, moist soil in the wild.
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 fast, active tarantula; rarely staying still for long. It has one of the boldest feeding responses in the hobby and can bolt if disturbed.
Spiderlings: Extra skittish, quick to retreat or hide
Adults: More stable but still very active; will explore the floor of the enclosure
Handling: Not recommended — it’s too fast and defensive to safely handle
Observation tip:
If you notice increased webbing or blocked hides, it often signals an upcoming molt. Give your spider privacy and avoid disturbing it during 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
Vitalius chromatus is a striking, bold, and energetic tarantula. With its dramatic white stripes and vivid red abdomen, it’s a showpiece in any collection. But don’t be fooled by its beauty — it’s quick, defensive, and kicks some of the most irritating urticating hairs in the New World. Best for keepers who enjoy active observation rather than handling, this species rewards good husbandry with hours of entertainment and visual luxury.