Lasiodora parahybana

Description

Lasiodora parahybana – Brazilian “Salmon Pink” for lovers of large tarantulas

Lasiodora parahybana, commonly known as the Brazilian Salmon Pink Birdeater, is one of the largest and fastest-growing tarantulas in the world. Adult females reach up to 22 cm in leg span, and their dark brown body is adorned with contrasting salmon-pink bristles on their legs and abdomen. The species originates from the semi-humid savannahs of the state of Paraíba in north-eastern Brazil, where high temperatures, moderate humidity and seasonal rains prevail. In the terrarium, L. parahybana impresses with its rapid growth rate, strong appetite and spectacular hunting – it is the perfect choice for breeders who want a large, undemanding giant.

Table of basic parameters

Why choose Lasiodora parahybana?

1. Giant size – Few species can match the size of an adult L. parahybana – the impression of “pink fluff” on its legs catches the eye of everyone who looks into the terrarium.
2. Rapid growth – With regular feeding, juveniles reach 10 cm in their first year of life. This is an excellent option for breeders who do not want to wait many years to see an impressive adult bird.
3. Moderate requirements – This species is forgiving of minor mistakes: it tolerates short-term drops in humidity and slight temperature fluctuations, as long as it has constant access to water and a dry corner where it can rest.
4. Spectacular hunting – Strong chelicerae and quick reflexes make feeding a real spectacle – the spider instantly grabs its prey and displays the impressive strength of its jaws.
5. Educational value – Huge shedding, aggressive “dancing” before confronting prey, and combing out stinging hairs are a lesson in biology, behaviour, and the defensive strategies of tarantulas.

Breeding tips for Lasiodora parahybana

1. Starting container – Slings (L1–L3) can be kept in a 0.5 litre box with 3 cm of peat. Repot when the spider has difficulty spreading its legs or the substrate dries out too quickly.
2. Target terrarium – For females, 40 × 30 × 30 cm is the minimum; a larger base (e.g. 50 × 40) will allow you to observe natural digging behaviour. Add a cork bark hide or ceramic tube.
3. Humidity and ventilation – Sprinkle half of the substrate once a week. Ventilation holes on the sides and in the lid prevent mould and maintain a slightly humid microclimate.
4. Feeding
   1. Slings: 2 times a week, small crickets or cockroaches.
   2. Juveniles: every 5–6 days, Turkish cockroaches or locusts.
   3. Adult female: every 7–10 days, a large Madagascar hissing cockroach or 2–3 crickets. A mouse pup can be fed once every 2 months (no more often, so as not to make the spider fat).
5. Moulting – Refusal to eat, dull skin and increased sitting near the hiding place are signs of impending moulting. Increase humidity, do not feed insects and wait a week after moulting before resuming feeding.
6. Safety – L. parahybana rarely bites, but it combs out dense stinging hairs – these can cause itching or irritation to the eyes. Use tweezers and avoid sudden movements when cleaning the arena.

If you are looking for a large, fast-growing and relatively tolerant bird spider, Lasiodora parahybana will be a perfect choice. Its impressive size, attractive salmon-coloured bristles and simple requirements make it the perfect inhabitant of a spacious terrarium. Order today and see for yourself how spectacular the world of tarantulas can look in your own home!