Short-horned Baboon Spider

Ceratogyrus brachycephalus is one of several 'horned baboon' tarantulas from southern Africa, distinguished by a smaller, straighter horn (a foveal protuberance on the carapace) compared to C. darlingi. The function of the horn is not definitively understood. Like all Ceratogyrus, they are deep burrowers from arid habitats — keep substrate dry with periodic deep watering (pour water in one corner to create a moisture gradient at depth). Avoid misting the surface. As an Old World species with no urticating hairs, a bite is the only defense — and they use it readily. Exercise extreme caution during maintenance; always use long tongs. Venom is medically significant. Provide ample substrate depth and a starter burrow. They may rarely be seen above ground. A challenging but rewarding species for experienced keepers interested in African baboon tarantulas.