Giant White Knee (Acanthoscurria geniculata)

If you want a large, striking, and active display tarantula — this is it. Acanthoscurria geniculata is famous for its bold black-and-white leg banding, impressive size, and voracious appetite. It’s one of the most eye-catching terrestrial giants in the hobby — beautiful, hardy, and always ready to eat.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Giant White Knee / Brazilian White Knee

Scientific Name: Acanthoscurria geniculata

Origin: Northern Brazil (Amazon basin region)

Habitat Type: Terrestrial, rainforest floor dweller

Size: 7–8.5 inches (18–22 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

• Females: 15–20 years
• Males: 4–6 years

Temperament: Generally defensive and food-aggressive — not for handling

Coloration

Deep jet-black or chocolate brown body

Brilliant white to cream knee stripes on each leg joint

Long reddish hairs on the abdomen, giving a subtle warm glow

Heavy-bodied and visually imposing

The contrast between the black body and bright leg bands makes it a true display centerpiece.

Housing

Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — large floor space is key

Substrate: 4–5 inches of slightly moist substrate (coco fiber/topsoil mix)

Humidity: 70–80%

Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)

Decor:

• One sturdy hide (cork bark or half log)
• Water dish
• Optional leaf litter or plants for realism

Behavior: Will often remain visible — an active “show spider”

Keep the enclosure well-ventilated and humidity balanced — too wet can cause stress.

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, locusts, and the occasional mealworm or superworm

Feeding Frequency:

• Slings: 2–3x per week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 10–14 days

Feeding Style: Extremely food-motivated — expect powerful feeding strikes.

Why Keep One?

Spectacular display species — always visible

Beautiful black-and-white banding

Hardy and fast-growing

Massive size and presence

Fascinating feeding behavior and activity

Notes

Not for handling — can flick urticating hairs or display threat poses

Venom: Mild to moderate but can cause irritation

Fast and defensive during feeding or maintenance

Keep humidity consistent to avoid dehydration in larger specimens