Brachypelma

The genus Brachypelma was established in 1891 by French arachnologist Eugène Simon, based on spiders like Mygale emilia (now Brachypelma emilia). These large, ground-dwelling tarantulas from Mexico became famous for their calm temperament and striking red or orange markings on the legs, especially species such as Brachypelma smithi and Brachypelma hamorii.

Through the 20th century, the group’s classification was debated. At different times Brachypelma was treated as a synonym of other genera such as Eurypelma and Euathlus, and several closely related genera (like Brachypelmides) were proposed, then later merged back into Brachypelma as more comparative work was done.

In the 1980s and 1990s, heavy collection for the pet trade led to international protection. Brachypelma smithi was added to CITES Appendix II in 1985, and by 1994 all Brachypelma species were listed, making them some of the few invertebrates with strict export controls.

Modern molecular and morphological studies showed that “classic” Brachypelma was actually made up of two distinct lineages. In a 2019/2020 revision, Jorge Mendoza and Oscar Francke officially split the genus in two: the red-legged species (such as B. hamorii, B. smithi, B. boehmei, B. emilia, B. albiceps, etc.) remained in Brachypelma, while the “red-rump” species (like vagans and albopilosum) were transferred to a new genus, Tliltocatl.

Today, Brachypelma is a smaller, Mexican-endemic genus focused on the iconic red-leg tarantulas. All species are still covered by CITES regulations, and continued captive breeding and habitat protection are essential to secure their future in the wild.

Brachypelma hamorii

Our Specimen:

Given name: Ash

Sex: TBD

Life stage: Sub-adult

• Approximately 4.25 in

• Beautiful and healthy specimen

• Easy going with pleasant demeanor

Source: Mendoza and Francke 2020

Genus and species: Brachypelma emilia

Common name: Mexican Red Leg

Given name: Ember

Sex: TBD

Life stage: Juvenile

This species resides in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Occidental in Sinaloa and Nayarit on the Pacific (west) side of central Mexico. This is considered a docile species, which is in high demand in the pet trade. As a result, it is considered threatened in the wild.

Habitat: Semi-desert scrubland.

Specimen Notes:

• Approximately 4.25 in

• Typically on display. Generally docile.

• Consistent eater

• Very slow growing. Pleasant demeanor

Genus and species: Brachypelma boehmei

Common name: Mexican Fireleg

Given name: Spark

Sex: TBD

Life stage: Juvenile

This species resides on the west coast of central Mexico. As with other Brachypelma, this species is threatened in the wild.

Habitat: It can be found in scrublands near rocks or fallen logs.

Specimen Notes:

• Approximately 4 in

• Generally docile and prefers its burrow.

• Not an aggressive eater.

• Typically resides in its burrow but does come out periodically.

Genus and species: Brachypelma klaasi

Common name: Mexican Pink

Given name: Flare

Sex: TBD

Life stage: Juvenile

This species resides in the Pacific slopes of southern Jalisco and western Colima.

Habitat: Semi-desert scrubland.

Specimen Notes:

• New addition to the collection

• Approximately 3 inches