Dwarf Pink Leg (Kochiana brunnipes)

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