Appearance and Characteristics
The Mexican Fireleg resembles its better known relative, Mexican redknee tarantula (Brachypelma smithi) in its dramatic orange and black coloration. Though the adults of the species range from 5 to 6 inches in size. This species of tarantula has a slower growth rate than many of the larger South American tarantula species. The black femora (or upper legs) provide a dark dividing band between the rich orange color of the carapace and lower legs. Unlike the orange joints of Brachypelma smithi, the beautifully colored legs of this species are a bright, ‘fiery’ red on the patellae (or knees), fading gradually to a paler orange further down and tipped by black tarsi (or feet). Although not particularly defensive, this species of spider can have a nervous temperament, where the spider can flick urticating hairs when it feels threatened.
Read more about this topic: Brachypelma Boehmei
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