Arachnid · Burrowing tarantula
Grand Canyon black tarantula care guide
Aphonopelma marxi
The grand canyon black tarantula is a intermediate-level burrowing tarantula from SW USA (Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado). Adults reach Leg span 10–12 cm and live Females 20–30 years, males 5–8 years in captivity. Obligate burrower from cold-winter habitats; often hides for months, which is normal.
- Enclosure 30 × 30 × 30 cm
- Temp 20–26°C
- Humidity 40–50%
How much does a grand canyon black tarantula cost in Canada?
Grand Canyon black tarantula quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- Leg span 10–12 cm
- Lifespan
- Females 20–30 years, males 5–8 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- SW USA (Arizona, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado)
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 in, ≈ 7 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- 20–26°C
- Humidity
- 40–50%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms
- Bioactive style
- Burrowing tarantula
Grand Canyon black tarantula enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (12 × 12 × 12 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a burrowing tarantula bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Tarantula Mix15 cm
Deep, slightly packed soil lets burrows hold their shape. Moisten the lower layers; the top can be drier.
Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 40–50%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a grand canyon black tarantula eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 appropriately sized insects every 7–14 days; slings: small prey 2–3 times a week.
Handling, temperament & health
Docile but best treated as a display animal; can flick urticating hairs that irritate skin and eyes.
Health watch: Watch for dehydration and molt problems; keep the lower substrate slightly moist and leave the burrow undisturbed.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Visual check only.
Weekly
- Offer food at the burrow entrance; remove leftovers.
- Refill water; moisten one corner so the deep soil stays damp.
Monthly
- Check moisture deep down by pouring a little water at the edge.
Yearly
- Rehouse as the spider grows.
Recommended for a grand canyon black tarantula bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 30 × 30 cm).
Grand Canyon black tarantula FAQ
Is the grand Canyon black tarantula good for beginners?
The grand Canyon black tarantula is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Docile but best treated as a display animal; can flick urticating hairs that irritate skin and eyes.
What size enclosure does a grand Canyon black tarantula need?
At least 30 × 30 × 30 cm (about 12 × 12 × 12 inches, roughly 7 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a grand Canyon black tarantula cost in Canada?
Typically $60–150 CAD to buy, about $100–170 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $40–90 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a grand Canyon black tarantula need?
Temperature: 20–26°C. Humidity: 40–50%.
What does a grand Canyon black tarantula eat?
Insectivore – crickets, dubia roaches, mealworms. Adults: 1–2 appropriately sized insects every 7–14 days; slings: small prey 2–3 times a week.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.