Chilean Rose Haired Tarantula

Scientifically identified as the Grammostola Rosea, this speciesis commonly known as the Chilean Rose Haired Tarantula. Some consider this species as one of the perfect tarantulae for beginners, while others disagree. So what are the conflicting opinions relating to the G. Rosea? Let’s dive in and take a closer look!

Origins and Natural Habitat

As its common name suggests, the G. Rosea hails from Chile. This species is a new world terrestrial tarantula – a ground-dweller living primarily in burrows under rocks. This species is widely distributed throughout Chile, meaning that climate and environment vary depending on location.

Most of the species in the pet hobby are reported to be from desert type landscapes; however, this is difficult to prove. Here the air and ground are very dry and lack vegetation. Temperatures fluctuate drastically throughout the year, from 50 deg F in winter to 90 deg F in summer and humidity from 40% to 60%. The burrows this species dig are not only places of solitude, but also areas of retreat from environmental conditions. The G. Rosea like to escape the cold in winter and extreme heat in summer.

Confusion and debate surround the Chilean Rose Haired species, particularly the G. Rosea and the G. Porteri. Some claim that both of these species are different from each other, others argue that the G. Porteri is just a colour variation of the G. Rosea.

Experts in Chile are currently working on confirming whether these species are unique or not. If it’s difficult for the experts to differentiate, it’s even more so for us as hobbyists!

So what are the conflicting opinions?

While many suggest that this species is the perfect beginner species, others argue it is not. There’s divided opinion regarding the temperament of the G. Rosea.

As spiderlings, this species is docile, friendly and a little skittish, standard for most slings. Nothing to worry about here, eh? Problems tend to arise as this species matures into adulthood.

Some keepers have reported that their G. Rosea transformed into a very temperamental pet – one minute relaxed and docile, the next aggressive and striking a threatening pose with fangs on show. They will attack anything that enters their enclosure, so care must be taken when performing maintenance. They have also said that this wasn’t the case for just one G. Rosea with a bad attitude, but for most/all of the G. Rosea species in their collection.

On the flip side, other keepers report that this is a very gentle and docile pet. That it is uncommon to witness aggressive behaviour and is the perfect guest in your home. Easy to care for and highly recommend for newcomers to the hobby. Perhaps it’s temperament that differentiates the G. Rosea from the G. Porteri? Or perhaps not… we await clarification from the experts.

Some experienced keepers have reported that their G. Rosea is much more aggressive and “moody” at temperatures higher than 77 deg F. They say that their G. Rosea shows a gentle side between 71 – 76 deg F.

Let’s remember that this species dig burrows to avoid intense heat and cold – this may be a valid explanation for notable mood-swings.

Growth and Colouration

G. Rosea is a very slow grower. The female can live for more than 20 years in captivity while the male can live for 5 or 6 years. This species grows to 5 – 6 inches. They are dark brown/black in colour, with red/pink hairs covering their entire body. Species with grey hairs covering their body are considered to be G. Porteri.

But are they suitable as pets?

These species do make suitable pets, but not for the newcomer to the hobby. You may get lucky and receive a chilled-out spider, or you may be unlucky to receive a spider who wants to go 10 rounds with you at any opportunity.

This species have type 3 and type 4 urticating setae. When threatened, this species can kick (or flick) its setae as a defence mechanism. It also possesses mildly venomous fangs. In some cases, the Chilean Rose Hair is unlikely to flick hair or bite. Precaution must be taken though as each specimen has its own personality, and there are reports of this species showing aggression.

Handling is always recommended against, but there are times when it can’t be avoided. If handling is necessary, it is recommended to first test the temperament of your specimen, wear gloves and thoroughly wash your hands afterwards.

Enclosure

This species prefers a large enclosure with lots of floor space. Aim for x3 leg span in width. Lots of ventilation holes should be provided, allowing for plenty of air movement. This species will be perfectly happy at room temperature. It is recommended not to exceed 77 deg F or aggression may be shown. And like most species, only one spider per enclosure.

The substrate should be kept dry, adding a water bowl in one corner of the enclosure to provide hydration and to maintain humidity. The substrate should be at least 4 inches deep.

This species likes to move substrate around and will create its own burrow – so expect your new friend to make itself at home and rearrange its living quarters.

Cork bark and fake plants are always a welcome addition. They provide hiding spots should the spider feel stressed or be about to molt.

Feeding time

This species can refuse to eat for up to 2 years!!! More so in the adult stage of their life. Always ensure there is water in the bowl to keep your spider hydrated. New hobbyists tend to panic that their new pet hasn’t eaten in so long.

If you do happen to have a good eater, crickets, roaches and mealworm are recommended. Pre-kill prey for spiderlings. Juveniles and adults can handle live food and will gladly hunt them down. Feed a couple of insects a week to keep your tarantula healthy. It’s essential to remove any remains of uneaten food from the enclosure within 24 hours to prevent mould and mites from developing.

Breeding Time

This is a tricky species to breed. Because of this, most of the specimens in the trade are wild-caught. Many attempts have been made to breed; however, most fail to produce.

Breeding the G. Rosea is similar to breeding many other tarantulae. The male should be introduced to the female enclosure, and at a distance. Allow the pair to grow accustomed to each other and begin to perform their ritual. The couple will perform a drumming pattern to declare their interest and will approach each other to start.

The process is a lengthy one and must be supervised throughout. Pay close attention to when the act is completed as the female may attack and kill the much smaller male afterwards. When finished, the male will run away to escape the female and protect itself from attack. The time from successful mating to hatching can be as little as 4 months. It’s essential to keep a close eye on the female during this period. Ensure she is well fed and try not to disrupt her enclosure.

In Conclusion – the Key Points

The Chilean Rose Hair is recommended as an addition to an experienced keeper’s collection. Although hardy and easy to care for, due to potential temperamental issues and crazy long fasting periods, this species is not recommended for the first-timer. You may be lucky and get the perfect pet, or you may be unlucky and have a monster on your hands. The choice is yours! Readily available at a reasonable price, they may become more expensive since it’s now illegal to export this species from Chile.