Caribena versicolor

Description

Caribena versicolor – Multicoloured bird spider

Caribena versicolor is one of the most recognisable and stunning tarantulas in the world, valued by both experienced breeders and novice arachnid enthusiasts. This extremely colourful spider attracts attention with its intense colours, calm disposition and interesting behaviour. If you are looking for an exotic species to add to your collection, Caribena versicolor will certainly meet your expectations. The following description contains key information about its origin, breeding conditions, diet and behaviour to help you prepare the ideal environment for this unique tarantula.

Origin and natural habitat of Caribena versicolor

Caribena versicolor (formerly known as Avicularia versicolor) originates from the tropical regions of the Caribbean, particularly the Antilles. In the wild, it inhabits areas with high humidity and stable, warm temperatures. It can be found in the crowns of trees and shrubs, where it builds nests out of cobwebs. It is precisely this arboreal (tree-dwelling) lifestyle that means Caribena versicolor needs vertical space in its terrarium. In its natural habitat, temperatures are high (around 25–30°C) and humidity exceeds 70%.

Appearance and behaviour of Caribena versicolor

Intense colours

One of the most important reasons for the popularity of Caribena versicolor is its unusual colouring. Young individuals (L1, L2) usually take on a light blue colour, which gradually transforms into a more complex combination of colours, such as green, red, purple or even a metallic sheen. Adult females are characterised by a dark green carapace, red abdomen and purplish upper legs. This makes Caribena versicolor one of the most beautiful species of arboreal tarantulas.

Arboreal lifestyle

Caribena versicolor spends most of its time in spider web nests located high up in the terrarium. That is why it is so important to prepare a vertical structure (e.g. a sufficiently tall terrarium) that will allow the spider to build its web freely. In captivity, this tarantula will regularly build a hiding place out of white silk, where it can take refuge.

Calm disposition

Although many people associate tarantulas with aggressive predators, Caribena versicolor is considered a relatively docile species. When threatened, it usually chooses to flee rather than confront. Nevertheless, each spider may react differently, so caution is always recommended when handling them.

Breeding conditions for Caribena versicolor

Terrarium

• Type of terrarium: vertical, designed for arboreal tarantulas, taller than it is wide or long.
• Dimensions: for an adult animal, minimum approx. 20–30 × 20–30 × 30–40 cm (width × depth × height).
• Decoration: vertical decorative elements are recommended, e.g. cork bark, branches or artificial plants, which make it easier for the spider to build its nest.

Humidity and temperature

• Humidity: high, between 70–80%. Regular misting of the terrarium and appropriately selected substrate (e.g. coconut fibre) will help maintain the right humidity.
• Temperature: 24–28°C during the day, may drop slightly at night (to approx. 20–22°C). A heating cable or heating mat can be used, remembering to position them correctly to avoid overheating the spider.

Substrate

It is recommended to use a substrate with good moisture retention properties, such as coconut peat or a mixture of peat and coconut fibre. A layer of 2–5 cm is sufficient to maintain optimal conditions and prevent mould growth.

Ventilation

Caribena versicolor requires a well-ventilated terrarium to prevent mould growth and maintain a stable microclimate. Ventilation holes should be located at both the top and bottom of the terrarium.

Feeding and hydration of Caribena versicolor

Dieta

This tarantula is a predator whose diet in captivity consists mainly of feed insects such as crickets, cockroaches and mealworms. Young specimens should be fed food proportional to their size (e.g. small crickets), while adult tarantulas can successfully hunt larger insects. It is best to feed them every 5–7 days, adjusting the frequency to the spider’s condition.

Access to water

Although Caribena versicolor satisfies a significant part of its fluid requirements from its prey, spraying the terrarium is recommended.

Reproduction of Caribena versicolor

For advanced breeders, Caribena versicolor may also be an interesting choice in terms of reproduction. However, this requires experience in pairing individuals, ensuring appropriate conditions and patience, as the process of cocoon development and hatching of young can take several months. The female may be aggressive towards the male, so controlled pairing in a well-arranged environment is recommended.

Why choose Caribena versicolor?

1. Unique colouring: Its rich colours make it one of the most beautiful tree-dwelling tarantulas.
2. Gentle disposition: Less aggressive than many other species, making it a suitable choice for those with less experience.
3. Fascinating lifestyle: Their arboreal nature and spider web nests provide an unforgettable viewing experience.
4. Relatively simple requirements: With adequate humidity, temperature and ventilation, Caribena versicolor thrives in captivity.
5. Educational value: It allows you to learn about predatory behaviour, the moulting cycle and the growth process of the tarantula.

Caribena versicolor is a species that will delight every lover of exotic creatures. Its colourful appearance, relatively gentle disposition and spectacular behaviour make it an ideal choice for those who want to expand their knowledge of tree-dwelling tarantulas. Provide the right conditions – stable temperature, high humidity and vertical space – and you will be rewarded with an extraordinary spectacle of nature in the comfort of your own home!