Brazilian Grey Smoke (Grammostola Alticeps)

Grammostola alticeps, the Brazilian Grey Smoke, is one of the lesser-known gems in the Grammostola genus. It’s not as flashy as some, but it's got that classy, velvety, smoky aesthetic that makes it a real sleeper favorite among collectors.

Quick Facts

• Common Name: Brazilian Grey Smoke Tarantula

• Scientific Name: Grammostola alticeps

• Origin: Brazil, Uruguay, and surrounding South American regions

• Size: Around 6–6.5 inches (15–17 cm) leg span

• Lifespan:

  • Females: 15–20+ years

  • Males: ~4–6 years

• Temperament: Typically docile and calm, though a bit shy

• Coloration:

  • Velvety dark body with silvery-grey or bronze tones

  • Often a reddish or coppery carapace, giving it a smoky-metallic look

Housing

• Enclosure Type: Terrestrial (likes floor space more than height)

• Substrate: 3–5 inches of coco fiber, peat moss, or topsoil for occasional burrowing

• Humidity: 60–70%

• Temperature: 70–78°F (21–25°C)

• Decor: Provide a hide, shallow water dish, and maybe some natural decor — they appreciate feeling secure

Feeding

• Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms

• Feeding Frequency:

  • Slings: 2–3 times/week

  • Juveniles: Weekly

  • Adults: Every 10–14 days

Notes

• Not as common in the hobby, so they might be a bit pricier or harder to find

• While docile, some individuals can be flicky with urticating hairs

• Not a heavy webber or digger, but will rearrange its space a little