Desert Ground Tarantula Care Sheet
Invertebrate
Depends on Species
Various
Insectivore
Diet & Nutrition
Tarantulas eat a variety of live insects including crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and cockroaches. Vertebrates such as baby mice can be fed as well but should be done so in moderation. Never use a mouse that is large enough to bite or attack the tarantula.
Feeding Schedule
Housing & Habitat
Being from arid/semi-arid environments low humidity is recommended.
Consult your local store for specifics regarding your species.
Enclosure Size
Tank size will vary depending on the species and size of the tarantula.
Consult your local specialty store regarding a specific cage for your specific need. Secure tops are recommended as some species can climb glass.
Substrate
Sand or dry coconut fiber are perfectly fine substrates. Some keepers recommend using a 50/50 blend of sand and coconut fiber.
Temperature & Lighting
Temperature
Temperatures between 70-75°F are perfect for your tarantula. Any temperatures above 80°F can lead to death. Temperatures below 65°F can also be problematic and should be corrected using low watt lighting or heating pads.
Lighting
Molting - Molts will generally occur in a webbed burrow with the tarantula upside down. Feeding should be put off for at least a week after a molt as the fangs and exoskeleton will still be soft and damageable by prey. During molting a light mist of the cage is suggested as temporarily higher humidity levels can help the molting process.
Humidity & Watering
Watering
For tarantulas smaller than 1.5 inches, a very small bowl or cap of fresh water will suffice. For larger tarantulas of 3 inches or more, a larger bowl or invertebrate water dish will be adequate.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do Desert Ground Tarantulas eat?
Tarantulas eat a variety of live insects including crickets, mealworms, waxworms, and cockroaches. Vertebrates such as baby mice can be fed as well but should be done so in moderation. Never use a mouse that is large enough to bite or attack the tarantula.
What size enclosure does a Desert Ground Tarantula need?
Being from arid/semi-arid environments low humidity is recommended. Consult your local store for specifics regarding your species. Tank size will vary depending on the species and size of the tarantula. Consult your local specialty store regarding a specific cage for your specific need. Secure tops are recommended as some species can climb glass.
What temperature and lighting does a Desert Ground Tarantula need?
Temperatures between 70-75°F are perfect for your tarantula. Any temperatures above 80°F can lead to death. Temperatures below 65°F can also be problematic and should be corrected using low watt lighting or heating pads. Tarantulas do not need UVB or light sources. However, lighting maybe required for the maintaining of live plants and proper day/night cycles. Molting - Molts will generally occur in a webbed burrow with the tarantula upside down. Feeding should be put off for at least a week ...