Small in size but big in charm, Kochiana brunnipes is one of the tiniest tarantulas in the hobby — and one of the most visually striking for its size. With its velvety black body and vivid pinkish-red legs, this terrestrial gem is fast, feisty, and full of personality.
Quick Facts
Common Name: Dwarf Pink Leg
Scientific Name: Kochiana brunnipes
Origin: Brazil
Size: 2.5–3 inches (6–7.5 cm) leg span
Lifespan:
- Females: ~10–12 years
- Males: ~3–4 years
Temperament: Nervous and fast; not defensive but very skittish
Coloration
Shiny black carapace and abdomen
Bright pink/reddish femurs on the front legs — giving it its name
A velvet-like appearance, especially after a fresh molt
Beautiful contrast in a tiny package
Housing & Care
Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — small but with burrowing tendencies
Substrate: 3–4 inches of moist substrate
Humidity: 70–80%
Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
Decor:
- Small cork bark hide
- Leaf litter and moss
- Water dish (for adults; slings benefit from light misting)
Give it hiding opportunities and it’ll dig or web up a cozy retreat.
Feeding
Diet: Flightless fruit flies (for slings), pinhead crickets, roach nymphs
Feeding Schedule:
- Slings: 2–3x/week
- Juveniles: Weekly
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Eager eater, often bold for its size
Why Keep One?
One of the smallest tarantulas in the hobby
Stunning coloration in a compact frame
Great for nano enclosures or bioactive micro habitats
Easy to care for and fascinating to observe
Ideal for those who appreciate the little things
Notes
Very quick and skittish — escapes are a risk during maintenance
Not suitable for handling due to size and speed
Can dry out easily — monitor humidity closely
Best for intermediate keepers who understand micro-enclosure setups
