Chilobrachys fimbriatus Care Guide

Introduction

• Common Name: Indian Violet Tarantula
• Origin: India
• Appearance: Known for deep violet and reddish-brown hues
• Behavior: Fast growth, aggressive feeding response, heavy webbing
• Suitability: Best for experienced keepers

Quick Species Snapshot

• Scientific Name: Chilobrachys fimbriatus
• Type: Fossorial (Obligate Burrower)
• Category: Old World
• Size: Up to 6 inches (15 cm) DLS
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Life Expectancy: Females 12–15 years, Males 3–4 years
• Experience Level: Advanced
• Venom Potency: Strong

Taxonomy, Etymology & Natural Environment

• Genus: Chilobrachys
  • Known for speed, defensiveness, webbing
• Natural Habitat: Tropical forests of India
  • Constructs deep burrows, reinforced with silk webbing

Behavior & Temperament

• Highly defensive, fast-moving
• Lacks urticating hairs, relies on potent venom
• Creates intricate webbing structures

Housing & Substrate

Spiderlings

• Enclosure: OG Sling Crib, Tarantula Cubes
• Substrate: 2/3 filled with Terra Aranea
• Humidity: Slightly damp substrate

Juveniles

• Enclosure: Crib 360-4 Fossorial, Hex Crib
• Substrate: Deep burrowing support
• Humidity: Dry part of substrate with one damp corner

Adults

• Enclosure: Hex Crib, Tarantula Cubes
• Substrate: Deep burrow setup
• Features: Branches or plants for webbing

Temperature & Humidity

• Temperature: 70-78°F (21-26°C)
• Humidity: 50-60%
• Ventilation: Ensure good airflow
• Water Dish: Keep filled, overflow occasionally

Feeding Schedule

Spiderlings

• Frequency: Twice a week
• Prey: Small prey (e.g., fruit flies)
• Post-Molt: Wait 24-48 hours

Juveniles

• Frequency: Every 7-10 days
• Prey: Small-medium crickets or Dubia roach
• Post-Molt: Wait 3-7 days

Adults

• Frequency: Every 2-3 weeks
• Prey: Large crickets or Dubia roach
• Post-Molt: Wait 5-10 days

Breeding in Captivity

• Maturity: Males 2-3 years, Females 4-5 years
• Pairing: Introduce male at night
• Egg Sac: Produced 4-6 months post-mating

Final Thoughts

• C. fimbriatus is visually stunning and showcases impressive webbing
• Not suitable for beginners due to defensiveness and venom
• Importance of supporting captive breeding to preserve populations

Additional Recommendations

• Enclosures from Tarantula Cribs (Use code TTC10 for discount)
• Substrate from Terra Aranea by The Bio Dude
• Captive-bred tarantulas from Spider Shoppe (Use code TTC10 for discount)