Singapore Blue tarantula (scientific name: Lampropelma violaceopes) is native to Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia, and used to be a dream species among enthusiasts. In 2001-2002, the price for a young individual reached as high as $300-400. It was previously considered a newly discovered species and often appeared in pet trades under the name "Cyriopagopus sp. blue". However, with successful artificial breeding, the price has decreased to a level that most enthusiasts can afford.
The Singapore Blue tarantula is a star among Asian bird spiders, with an adult body length of up to 20-25+ centimeters and shiny purple-blue and red hair, coupled with a relatively large size. It is these factors, along with its rarity at the time, that made it a dream species.
The Singapore Blue tarantula prefers a temperature of 25-28°C and humidity of 80%. It is recommended to use moist peat or coconut bricks as substrate. Like all Asian arboreal species, they have fast movement speed. Coupled with their often tense nerves, one touch could trigger an immediate response, making keepers nervous and afraid that they will immediately escape when the cover of the enclosure is opened. Therefore, providing a piece of bark or a tree hollow for hiding is necessary when keeping this species.
However, like other Asian bird spiders, Singapore Blue tarantulas also have a "tiger" temperament. Individuals that grow to a size of 6-7 centimeters or larger may display aggression. With higher venom toxicity, aggression, and speed, they are only recommended for "expert-level" keepers.
Just like all arboreal species in Asia, they move very quickly. Combined with their highly sensitive nerves, it makes the keepers nervous and afraid that they will immediately jump out as soon as they open the feeding box. Therefore, it is necessary to provide a piece of tree bark or a tree hole for them to hide, which will increase their sense of security. They will dig holes under the bark and use silk threads to stick the soil together to make their nests, while resting in the hole during normal times. They grow very quickly as adults, taking only 1 to 2 years to grow from a 3rd instar to a huge "tree tiger" of about 15cm.
Enthusiasts of climbing pets and bird-eating spiders suggest keeping the Singapore Blue tarantula. The Singapore Blue tarantula is a star among Asian bird-eating spiders. Its shiny blue-purple color and red hairs, combined with a relatively large body size, were the factors that made it a dream species in the past.
1. Emaciation Disease
When you find that the spider's body becomes dull and the skin starts to become dry and yellow, it is likely that it has developed emaciation disease. This is generally caused by the spider not eating well and suffering from malnutrition.
2. Intestinal Inflammation
On the contrary, this is caused by overeating. If the owner keeps feeding the spider or feeds it with food at a low temperature, it can cause bloating and abdominal pain, eventually leading to intestinal inflammation.
3. Hemiplegia
Spiders do not have high environmental requirements, but when the temperature is too high, especially in the summer when it is hot and humid, and the spider's cage is too far from the ventilation, the spider may experience heatstroke-like conditions, resulting in paralysis of the legs and hemiplegia.
4. Constipation
The main cause of constipation is usually lack of water. Besides eating, spiders also need water. If the owner only feeds the spider but does not provide water, the spider's body cannot obtain the necessary moisture from the food.
5. Black Decaying Disease
If the spider stops eating and moving, shows decreased energy, and has black ulcerative lesions in the abdomen, it indicates black decaying disease. The cause of this condition is eating and drinking stale substances. If the spider consumes contaminated food, it can contract black decaying disease, which can be fatal.
6. Fungal Spots Disease
Especially in the southern regions, during hot and humid weather in the summer, the spider's body surface is easily invaded by bacteria. The spider's joints become stiff, and its body becomes damp, providing a favorable environment for the bacteria to thrive and causing the appearance of fungal spots.
7. Parasites
Parasites can be said to be the most disgusting disease for spiders. If they are small insects, it's not too bad, but those aggressive parasites wriggle on the spider's body, which looks very disgusting. Besides disturbing the spider's rest, they may also carry other viruses, leading to multiple infections and threatening the spider's life.
1. Temperature
The temperature is best controlled between 25-30 degrees Celsius, with minimal temperature fluctuations between day and night. In the summer, it's important to cool down and prevent heatstroke, while in the winter, it's essential to provide warmth and ensure the well-being of the young tarantula.
2. Humidity
Moderate humidity should be maintained at around 65. Low humidity can cause dehydration and eventually lead to emaciation and death in young tarantulas. On the other hand, high humidity can result in edema and death. Too much moisture can also make the young tarantula susceptible to fungal infections.
3. Ventilation
A well-ventilated environment helps promote the physical strength of the young tarantula, reduce the risk of diseases, and facilitate successful molting. Air pollution, dampness, and stuffiness are the main causes of death in young tarantulas.
4. Feeding
Feeding young tarantulas mainly involves providing small animals such as fruit flies and small earthworms. Animal blood (without salt) can also be used as food. If possible, artificial feed can be used. The formula can consist of 50% egg yolk, 20% honey, 20% milk, 4% vitamin supplement, and 3% queen bee jelly. Mix the ingredients and place them on a dish or sponge for feeding.
5. Lighting
Adequate lighting is important. If conditions allow, you can bring the tarantula outside to receive natural sunlight (tarantulas do not like light, so make sure they have a shaded area for safety). Keep the windows open regularly but avoid direct sunlight.
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