Pamphobeteus fortis (Colombian giant copperhead tarantula) (Colombian giant brown tarantula)

Size Range

Sling (~2.5cm)
Juvenile (2.5cm~8cm)
Sub-adult (8cm~17cm)
Adult (17cm~)

Description

#Giant
#SexualDimorphism

Pamphobeteus fortis known also by the common name Colombian giant copperhead tarantula, is a New World terrestrial, opportunistic burrower that bred recently for the first time in South Africa.

The Colombian Giant Brown / Copperhead as the name suggests, is mostly brown (Like all the Pamphobeteus species) but this is not entirely accurate as there are also light hues of purple visible here and there as well as the light copper tones that are seen all over the carapace, thus why we prefer to call it the Giant Copperhead. As with most Pamphobeteus species, colors are much more pronounced on mature males. From young however, slings and juveniles possess the black zig-zag-like christmas tree pattern on their abdomen and their carapace turns to a warm copper color when slings reach 3cm to 4cm in size already.

At full size, it’s a very impressive spider and a rewarding tarantula to keep, quite happy to sit out in the open for all to see, they make a good display tarantula. They’re a little skittish and defensive as youngsters, raising their abdomen/opisthosoma up in the air to look bigger and more threatening as a defense, they will also flick urticating bristles in your direction if they feel threatened so take care because they have some of the most irritating bristles in the business. However, they mellow with age and become large slow-moving monsters, until disturbed that is… they can suddenly move with unexpected speed.

Although pretty laid back for it’s size, this spider is bold and will gladly stand it’s ground if it’s in the mood. Its will eventually get defensive and flick urticating bristles or even throw a threat pose if annoyed enough. As always, get to know your specific tarantula.

ABOUT SIZES

In Tarantula life cycle, there is only eggs, spider-ling and adult.

However for pricing convenience, this is a personal rule of thumb, obviously this varies on the species of tarantula.
1. Sling (1cm~2cm)
2. Juvenile (2cm~7cm)
3. Sub adult (7cm~10cm)
4. Adult (10cm~12cm+)

It varies on species as some adults may only reach a few centrimeters while others may get (20cm~25cm+)