Davus

This genus currently includes four accepted species in scientific classifications, all hailing from Central America (Mexico to Panama). Davus species present with red to orange striped coloration, giving them the common name of "tiger rump tarantulas."

Source: Gabriel 2016

Source: Gabriel 2016

Genus and species: Davus pentaloris

Common name: Guatemalan Tiger Rump

Given name: Horchata

This dwarf species is native to El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. Considered to have complex morphological variation. Small to medium size tarantula, growing to approximately 4 to 4.75 inches. Considered to be quick and relatively skittish. Has type III urticating hairs. Beautiful species, with an orange abdomen and black tiger striped pattern. The pentaloris has an orange carapace while the fasciatus has a dark carapace.

Habitat: tropical forests, humid grasslands. Makes its home in leaf litter, logs, and abandoned burrows. Essential to maintain suitable humidity.

Husbandry Notes:

Enclosure: 6x6x6

Flora: Bio naturalistic

Sex: TBD

Life stage: Juvenile

Size: Approximately 1.75 in

Growth: Steady, recently molted (May 2025)

Disposition: Generally active

Eating habits: Typically an aggressive eater

Misc: Doing well and eating well

Genus and species: Davus fasciatus

Common name: Costa Rican Tiger Rump

Given name: Hershey

This species is native to Costa Rica and Panama. Small to medium size tarantula, growing to approximately 4 to 4.75 inches. Adults typically have a dark carapace whereas D. pentaloris has an orange carapace.

Habitat: tropical forests, humid grasslands. Makes its home in leaf litter, logs, and abandoned burrows.

Note: our specimen appear to be a morph of D. pentaloris, but tbd until next molt.

Husbandry Notes:

Enclosure: 4x4x4

Flora: Bio naturalistic

Sex: TBD

Life stage: Juvenile

Size: Approximately 1.5 in

Growth: Steady, recently molted (May 2025)

Disposition: Generally active

Eating habits: Typically eats well

Misc: Doing well and eating well

Genus and species: Davus sp. Panama

Common name: Lava Spider

Given name: Cyra

This dwarf species is endemic to Panama. They are known for their bright red and orange coloration, resembling Lava. This is a desired species in the hobby, with rising prices reflective of this.

Habitat: tropical forests, humid grasslands. Makes its home in leaf litter, logs, and abandoned burrows.

Husbandry Notes:

Enclosure: 8x8x8

Flora: Bio naturalistic

Sex: Female

Life stage: Adult

Size: Approximately 4 in

Growth: Stable

Disposition: Generally in the open with periods of being reclusive.

Eating habits: Has not been an aggressive eater, particularly as of late.

Misc: Has not developed a particular personality trait as of yet.