Pumpkin Patch Tarantula

## Overview A stunning dwarf tarantula species renowned for its vibrant orange and black patterning resembling a miniature pumpkin patch. The carapace and abdomen display strongly contrasted black and orange markings. Tan to light brown legs complement the colorful body. One of the most popular dwarf species in the hobby due to rapid growth, impressive webbing, and striking coloration that is visible from the spiderling stage. Two forms exist in the hobby: the 'groot' (large) form reaching 3.5-4 inches and the 'klein' (small) form reaching only 2-2.5 inches. Care is identical for both forms.

## Husbandry

### Temperature Ideal: 75°F Range: 65-85°F Does well at normal room temperatures from upper 60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. Native habitat has temperatures between 69-78°F. Warmer temperatures increase metabolism, feeding response, and growth rate. Can tolerate cooler temps in the 60s but growth will slow. Nighttime temps should not drop below 70°F.

### Humidity Range: 60-80% Moisture-dependent species, especially as slings. Keep substrate slightly damp but not swampy for slings. Adults can tolerate drier conditions but appreciate some moisture - keep at least one corner moist. When kept too dry, specimens will linger around water dishes. Good ventilation essential to prevent mold while maintaining humidity.

### Substrate Type: Coconut fiber, peat moss, or organic coco fiber mix Depth: 2-3 inches minimum for burrowing

### Feeding Prey: Crickets, Dubia roaches, Mealworms, Red runner roaches, Flightless fruit flies (for tiny slings) Juvenile: Every 5-7 days Adult: Once every 7-14 days

## Behavior Temperament: Docile Activity Level: High

Docile but extremely fast and skittish - can reach explosive speeds when startled. Prefers to flee rather than stand ground. Rarely aggressive or defensive; seldom flicks urticating hairs. Handling not recommended due to speed and delicate build. Excellent display species that often stays visible and creates fascinating web structures. Active hunters with entertaining feeding responses. Curious and may dart to enclosure opening when disturbed. Slings burrow; adults web extensively above ground.

## Special Considerations

### Taxonomic Notes Sold in the hobby as both 'Hapalopus formosus' and 'Hapalopus sp. Colombia.' The relationship between these names is debated. The 'groot' (large) and 'klein' (small) forms may be variants of the same species or possibly separate species. Some hybridization has likely occurred in the hobby. The genus name Hapalopus means 'delicate foot' in Greek.

### Speed Warning Despite docile nature, this species is extremely fast - can bolt at explosive speeds when startled. Exercise extreme caution during feeding and rehousing. Work over a catch container. Not easily spooked combination makes this challenging - they startle easily but move incredibly fast when they do.

### Tiny Slings Second instar slings are extremely small - often measuring less than 5mm total outstretched size. Require pinhead crickets, fruit fly larvae, or similar tiny prey. Hardy despite small size but require appropriate-sized food sources.

### Display Appeal One of the best display dwarf species in the hobby. Active, often visible, creates fascinating web structures, and has bold coloration visible even as tiny slings. Feeding time is entertaining due to aggressive hunting behavior. Colors resemble a miniature pumpkin patch - popular around Halloween.