Chunky, flashy, and full of personality — Nhandu coloratovillosus is a large terrestrial species famous for its bold white striping and thick body. It's tough, fast-growing, and known for its "always hungry" attitude. A great species if you love active, visible tarantulas with some sass.
Quick Facts
Common Name: Brazilian Black & White
Scientific Name: Nhandu coloratovillosus
Origin: Brazil
Size: 6–7 inches (15–18 cm) leg span
Lifespan:
- Females: 15–20 years
- Males: 3–5 years
Temperament: Skittish, defensive when provoked, heavy hair kicker
Coloration
Jet black body base
Bold white striping across the knees and legs
Densely haired, giving a "fluffy" but powerful appearance
Dramatic contrast makes them real eye-catchers even from a distance
Housing & Care
Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — needs floor space more than height
Substrate: 4–5 inches of substrate (slightly moist but well-draining)
Humidity: 65–75% — keep one side of the enclosure lightly moist
Temperature: 72–80°F (22–27°C)
Decor:
- Cork bark hide, plants, and a large water dish
- Plenty of open floor space to roam and bulldoze around
Known to redecorate aggressively — expect substrate rearrangement!
Feeding
Diet: Crickets, roaches, superworms
Feeding Schedule:
- Slings: 2–3x/week
- Juveniles: Weekly
- Adults: Every 7–10 days
Voracious feeders — known to charge prey without hesitation
Why It's a Fan Favorite
Striking black-and-white contrast — looks amazing in any setup
Active and visible — rarely hides for long
Strong feeding response (always exciting to watch)
Fast-growing for a New World species
Hardy and adaptable — not too fussy about care
Notes
Can be very defensive if stressed — will flick hairs aggressively
Not ideal for handling — skittish and quick to defend itself
Needs good ventilation to prevent mold with higher humidity
Benefits from regular spot cleaning due to how messy they can be
