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Cobalt Blue
Tarantula (Haplopelma lividum)
 A native
of the both Burma and Thailand, this spider was
first described by Smith.
It lives in a labyrinth of
extensive burrows in the tropical forests of
those countries.
This species is most notable for
its beautiful iridescent (electric) blue color of
the legs. The carapace is usually a light brown
with the abdomen a dark grey/brown, often with
chevron-like stripes.
One keeper described this spider
thus:
"One of the most aggressive,
most beautiful, and high strung tarantula in the
spider world. Females are a blue color and males
are brown. Only recommended for advanced
keepers".
This spider is usually described
as "one of the most bad-tempered/aggressive
spiders in the hobby, it is well known for its
lightning speed."
My own specimen of this tarantula
(Lightning) was very fast, not exactly
aggressive, but I have more that a little respect
for her. Not for the faint hearted as it can be a
bit of an escapologist.
PLEASE NOTE: This spider should
never be handled and certainly is not recommended
for a newcomer to tarantulas. This one is for the
experienced keeper only.
The requirements in captivity
are:
As for keeping them as pets, many
people keep these in large 12x12x12 (inches)
tanks.
Like the other tropical species
they require high humidity levels (above 80%).
As these spiders are keen
burrowers, you must make sure a suitable material
is used for the substrate. Substrate for the cage
should be of peat/vermiculite mix, should be at
least 3 inches deep.
An open water dish is a must, as
is regular spraying of the tank with a plant
mister. On no account should the humidity level
fall below 70 percent!
Food: All standard invertebrates
Type: Terrestrial (Tropical)
Aggressiveness: Considered very
bad tempered.
Venom Effect: Not yet known.
Geographic Range: Burma, Thailand
Humidity: 85%
Substrate: 3 inches (at least).
Shelter: Burrower, so makes it's
own home!
Water: Open water dish.
Longevity: Unknown.
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