Chilobrachys natanicharum

Description

Chilobrachys natanicharum – a spider-web fortress and a thrill all in one terrarium

Chilobrachys natanicharum is a tarantula for those who like species with character. Incredibly fast, a prolific web-spinner and builder of extensive tunnels, it can turn an ordinary terrarium into a veritable spider fortress. At the same time, it is a representative of the Old World, so it has no stinging hairs, and may react defensively when stressed. This is not a spider “for everyone”, but for an experienced keeper, it can be one of the most rewarding species to observe.

Detailed description of the species

Chilobrachys natanicharum is native to South-East Asia, most commonly associated with regions of Thailand. It leads a burrowing lifestyle, but not of the ‘dig and run’ variety. This species builds a very distinct, elaborate structure from its web: tunnels, antechambers, chambers and passageways, often also wrapping the terrarium walls and decorative elements. The effect is spectacular, especially when the spider has sufficient space and material for construction.

Adult females reach a leg span of approximately 14–16 cm. Their colouration is often described as dark with contrasting accents, and in good light they can look very striking. In practice, this is a tarantula that is more often seen as a ‘tunnel system’ than as a spider sitting in all its glory in the middle of the terrarium. This is normal, and that is precisely what makes it so charming.

Its temperament is typical of Chilobrachys: fast, skittish and defensive. This spider can dart from one end of the terrarium to the other in a fraction of a second. Maintenance work must therefore be carried out calmly, with the right tools and a clear plan. This is a species to be observed, not handled.

Advantages of Chilobrachys natanicharum

• Extreme spiderwebbing

  If you love cobwebs, tunnels and that ‘fortress’ feel, this species delivers in spades.

• High energy levels and quick reactions

  Feeding often looks like a scene from a film: a lightning-fast attack and the victim being immediately dragged into the tunnel.

• A striking Old World species

  For many breeders, this represents a step up to the next level, without compromising on dynamics or character.

• A striking visual effect in the terrarium

  Even when the spider is sitting in its tunnel, the structure remains visible and continues to do its job.

Breeding conditions in practice

Terrarium:

• It is important that the spider has space and the opportunity to build tunnels,

• 25x25x30 cm is a reasonable minimum for an adult female; anything larger would be even better,

• Provide the starting elements: a vertical branch, a piece of wood, something that will act as an “anchor point” for the tunnel.

Substrate:

• A substrate depth of 10–20 cm is key, as the species will use it to build and reinforce its tunnels,

• coconut fibre or a mixture of soil and peat without fertilisers, which retains its structure well,

• The soil may be slightly damp deeper down and drier on the surface.

Humidity and ventilation:

• aim for 70–80 per cent, but with good ventilation,

• avoid condensation and stuffiness, as mould is more likely to develop in a damp, stuffy tank,

• a bowl of water always available.

Feeding:

• This species usually has a very good appetite,

• Choose food items that are appropriate for the size of the spider,

• Do not leave live, aggressive feeders out during the moulting season.

Service and safety:

• Always open the terrarium slowly,

• use tweezers and tools,

• Plan your moves, because it’s a lightning-fast spider,

• This is not a species that should be handled or moved unnecessarily.

Who is Chilobrachys natanicharum suitable for?

• for keepers who already have experience with tarantulas and are looking for a species with a distinct personality,

• for people who like spiderweb-like structures and a burrowing lifestyle,

• for those who understand the difference between the New World and the Old World and approach the subject with respect.

If you’re looking for a tarantula that will build a webbed fortress in your terrarium and showcase the full dynamism of Old World species, Chilobrachys natanicharum is an excellent choice. Add it to your basket, prepare a thick substrate, ensure good ventilation and provide a few items for tunnel-building. In return, you’ll get a species that makes a huge impression not because of its size, but because of how it transforms the terrarium into a living system of passages and webs.