Keeper guide

Is Venezuelan Blue Beauty a Good Beginner Tarantula? — Xenesthis intermedia

Venezuelan Blue Beauty can be a sensible first tarantula when the enclosure is set up properly. The main things to plan for are adult size, growth rate and the temperament of the individual spider.

Enclosure and maintenance

Adults reach about 20–23 cm (8–9 in). Xenesthis intermedia is a terrestrial species, so the enclosure should prioritise usable floor space, a snug ground-level retreat and enough substrate to keep fall height low.

With Xenesthis intermedia, routine care should not involve handling. Arrange the water dish, retreat and door so feeding and cleaning can be done without repeatedly disturbing the spider.

Growth, feeding and moulting

Growth is fast. Feed to the spider's size, appetite and abdomen rather than forcing a rigid weekly schedule; the routine will change as Xenesthis intermedia grows.

If Xenesthis intermedia refuses food and shows premoult signs, remove live prey, keep water available and leave it alone. There is no need to make a spider in normal premoult eat.

Lifespan and buying one

Venezuelan Blue Beauty females often live 12–18 years; males live roughly 3–5 years. An unsexed youngster can therefore become either a relatively short or a much longer commitment.

Before buying Venezuelan Blue Beauty, get two concrete details: how any claimed sex was established and the spider's current measured size. Those are more useful than a vague life-stage label.