Keeper guide

Bahia Scarlet Premoult Signs — How to Tell a Moult Is Coming

Premoult in Lasiodora klugi often shows as a combination of food refusal, more hiding, heavier webbing and changes in the abdomen. No single sign proves that a Bahia Scarlet is about to moult.

Food refusal

A sudden refusal of prey is common before a moult in Lasiodora klugi, especially when the spider had been feeding normally beforehand.

Remove ignored live prey from the Bahia Scarlet enclosure instead of offering another feeder immediately.

Retreat use and webbing

Lasiodora klugi may spend more time hidden, close a burrow entrance or lay heavier webbing before moulting. Leave the retreat intact.

Do not dig out a Bahia Scarlet simply because it has sealed itself in. Retreat closure can be normal premoult behaviour.

Abdomen changes

In species where the abdomen is visible, Lasiodora klugi may show a darker exposed patch or other colour change as a new exoskeleton develops underneath.

Not every Bahia Scarlet shows an obvious visual change, so use abdomen appearance alongside appetite and behaviour rather than as the only sign.

What to do

When premoult looks likely in Lasiodora klugi, remove live prey, keep fresh water available and keep the enclosure within its normal moisture and temperature range.

Do not increase handling, spraying or enclosure disturbance for a Bahia Scarlet. Stable conditions and patience are normally what the spider needs.

How long can premoult last?

Premoult in Lasiodora klugi can last much longer in a large animal than in a tiny sling. The passage of time alone does not prove something is wrong.

Judge a Bahia Scarlet by overall condition and enclosure access to water, not by expecting every spider to moult on the same timetable.