Costa Rica Zebra
Scientifically known as Aphonopelma Seemanni, this is a species with a beautiful colour pattern, is recommended for beginners and is somewhat of a Holywood superstar. Known commonly as the Costa Rica Zebra Tarantula and the Stripe-Knee Tarantula, this species is said to have featured alongside Macaulay Culkin in the Hollywood blockbuster, Home Alone.
Origins and Natural Habitat
As its name suggests, this species hails from Costa Rica in Central America. Found in the hotter and drier regions of Costa Rica, this species is a new world terrestrial tarantula. It creates deep burrows to escape the extreme heat and harsh cold of its environment. Rather than being a heavy web maker, the A. Seemanni lays silk at the entrance of its burrow to alert it should prey be nearby. It will also create a silkscreen around the inside walls of its burrow to add protection and comfort.
This species lives in temperatures ranging from 64 deg F to 81 deg F and average humidity of 70%. This species is nervous in nature and will seek out burrows and hiding places should it encounter other animals, humans or potential threats.
Growth and Colouration
Fully matured females can grow up to 6 inches, males up to 4 inches. This species can take from 5 – 6 years to fully mature, with females living for 20+ years, males for 5 – 6 years. Once mature, the male will typically live for 6 months to a year before calling it a day.
As slings, the A. Seemanni is brown in colour. As this species matures, its colour grows more vivid. There are 2 typical colourations for this species, brown and black. Males typically do not display the beautiful striped pattern that these species are known for. A closer look confirms that the stripes are present but are only recognisable on close inspection.
The female, however, will show off a beautiful striped pattern in all her glory. This species has stunning white (sometimes cream) coloured stripes on its legs, giving it the common names Costa Rica Zebra and Stripe-Knee. The black colour variant of this species also has a recognisable blue tint – paired with the stripes, this makes for one of the true beauties and standout species of the tarantula world.
But does it make a good pet?
The A. Seemanni makes an excellent pet for both beginners and established hobbyists. While not really recommended as a first tarantula, this species is certainly one to add to a collection once a keeper has gained valuable experience. This species, while docile in nature, can be a very nervous and skittish tarantula. Some keepers have reported temperamental mood swings, but these are few and far between. As a new world species, it possesses urticating setae that it can (and will) flick as a form of defence. It also possesses mildly venomous fangs, though this species is unlikely to bite. Please remember that each specimen has its own personality. Although this species is generally docile and unlikely to flick setae or bite, both can potentially still occur depending on your specimen’s temperament.
The A. Seemanni doesn’t grow out of its burrowing habits. Other new world terrestrial tarantulas will gradually spend more time out in the open as they mature – this species will continue to burrow even as it ages. This is another reason that A. Seemanni is not recommended as a first tarantula, they spend most of their time hiding, potentially frustrating a new hobbyist. Experienced hobbyists are willing to accept this “con” due to the beauty of the specimen when it is on show.
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 temperatures between the high 60s to 73 deg F.
Like most species, only one spider per enclosure. The substrate should be kept slightly moist, adding a water bowl in one corner of the enclosure to provide hydration and to maintain humidity. The substrate should be at least 4 – 6 inches deep, as this species is a keen burrower.
A. Seemanni 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. It will spend a lot of time in its newly built home.
Cork bark and fake plants are always a welcome addition. They provide hiding spots should the spider feel stressed or about to molt.
Feeding time
This species is 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. Due to their nervous nature, the smaller male is intimidated by the larger and more dominant female. As a result, the male will retreat and seek cover before mating can occur. This is not to say that it can’t or won’t happen in captivity, just that it has been reported as being complicated by experienced breeders and keepers.
Breeding the A. Seemanni 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 Costa Rica Zebra (A. Seemanni) is recommended for both beginners and experienced keepers in the hobby. This species is readily available and easy to pick up. While not recommended as a first tarantula, this species can be easily kept as a second/third tarantula. A. Seemanni species will burrow for the duration of its life; however, the colour pattern is simply stunning on mature females and a joy to watch when on display.
