Guatemalan Tiger Rump

## Overview A striking small terrestrial species featuring a copper to reddish-brown carapace with a gorgeous black tiger-striped pattern on the orange abdomen and a coppery mirror spot. Dark to black legs display blue iridescence on freshly molted specimens. This is the species commonly found in the hobby and is frequently mislabeled as Davus fasciatus (Costa Rican Tiger Rump). The true D. fasciatus has a black carapace with inverted abdominal colors and is extremely rare in captivity.

## Husbandry

### Temperature Ideal: 76°F Range: 70-82°F This species comes from southern Mexico and Guatemala, a warm and temperate area with temperatures rarely going above 82°F. Room temperature is typically adequate for this species.

### Humidity Range: 60-85% Moderate humidity requirements. Does not like overly damp substrate - ensure adequate ventilation. Keep substrate semi-moist for slings, can be drier for adults with periodic misting. Light misting of enclosure walls is recommended.

### Substrate Type: Coconut fiber, peat moss, vermiculite, or organic potting soil mix Depth: 3-5 inches minimum to allow burrowing

### Feeding Prey: Crickets, Dubia roaches, Mealworms, Red runner roaches Juvenile: 2-3 times per week Adult: Once every 7-10 days

## Behavior Temperament: Docile Activity Level: Moderate

Known for docile nature but can be skittish and quick to startle. Prefers to flee rather than stand ground. May kick urticating hairs if disturbed but rarely bites. Fast-moving species - care needed during feeding and rehousing. Often stays outside burrow once larger. Great display species with prolific webbing behavior.

## Special Considerations

### Taxonomic Confusion This species is frequently mislabeled in the pet trade as Davus fasciatus (Costa Rican Tiger Rump). The true D. fasciatus has a BLACK carapace with inverted colors on the abdomen and is extremely rare in the hobby. D. pentaloris has a COPPER/RED carapace. Previous scientific names include Cyclosternum fasciatum, Davus mozinno, Pseudoschizopelma pentalore, and Hapalopus pentaloris.

### Speed Warning Despite docile temperament, this species is extremely fast when startled. Can nearly bolt from enclosure during feeding or rehousing. Exercise caution and work over a catch container.

### Ventilation Requirements This species does not tolerate overly damp conditions. Adequate ventilation is essential to prevent stagnant air and mold growth while maintaining appropriate humidity levels.