Martinique Pink Toe (Caribena Versicolor)

Caribena versicolor is one of the most dazzling tarantulas in the hobby — starting life as a neon blue sling and maturing into a glorious blend of emerald green, wine red, and violet. Native to the lush Caribbean island of Martinique, this arboreal stunner is a visual masterpiece with a gentle attitude.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Martinique Pink Toe

Scientific Name: Caribena versicolor

Origin: Martinique (Caribbean)

Size: 4.5–6 inches (11–15 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

• Females: 10–12+ years
• Males: ~3–4 years

Temperament: Generally calm, fast but rarely defensive

Coloration

Slings: Electric metallic blue — unreal in person

Adults:

• Emerald green carapace
• Burgundy to purplish red abdomen and legs
• Pinkish toes and subtle iridescence throughout

Absolutely mesmerizing — a top-tier display spider

Housing & Care

Enclosure Type: Arboreal — vertical space is key

Substrate: 2–3 inches of moist substrate (coco fiber/soil mix)

Humidity: 70–80% — appreciates occasional misting

Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)

Decor:

• Vertical cork bark or branches for webbing
• Leaf clusters, moss, and anchor points
• Water dish + good ventilation (essential to avoid mold)

Will build elaborate web tunnels up high — gorgeous to watch as it settles in.

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, small locusts

Feeding Schedule:

• Slings: 2–3x/week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 7–10 days

Active hunter — responsive but not frantic

Why It’s a Superstar

Unreal coloration — vibrant at all life stages

Great for observation — arboreal webs are architectural

Generally docile and easy to care for

Thrives with proper airflow and vertical space

Perfect “next step” after terrestrials

Notes

Very fast — can teleport if startled

Not a fan of handling (like most arboreals)

Needs excellent cross-ventilation — prone to mold without it

Can dry out quickly — mist lightly to maintain humidity

May spend time out in the open — great display species if secure