This terrestrial beauty from Mexico turns heads with fiery red legs, deep black contrast, and a calm (if sometimes hair-flicky) personality. A favorite for display tanks and photography, B. boehmei is a slow-growing stunner that’s as iconic as it is eye-catching.
Quick Facts
Common Name: Mexican Fire Leg
Scientific Name: Brachypelma boehmei
Origin: Mexico (Guerrero region)
Size: 5.5–6 inches (14–15 cm) leg span
Lifespan:
- Females: 20–25+ years
- Males: ~5–6 years
Temperament: Calm, skittish when young; prone to kicking hairs
Coloration
Vibrant red-orange legs and carapace edges
Deep black femurs and abdomen
Densely hairy — giving a bold, flame-like look
Looks “painted” — a top-tier display species
Housing & Care
Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — give it room to roam
Substrate: 4–5 inches of dry substrate (coco fiber/topsoil)
Humidity: 60–70% — keep mostly dry with a water dish
Temperature: 72–78°F (22–25°C)
Decor:
- Hide (cork bark or half log)
- Water dish
- Simple setup is fine — this is a low-maintenance species
Often seen out in the open, especially if it feels secure — excellent for display.
Feeding
Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms
Feeding Schedule:
- Slings: 2–3x/week
- Juveniles: Weekly
- Adults: Every 10–14 days
Not a voracious eater, but consistent
Why It’s a Showstopper
One of the most striking colorations of any tarantula
Long-lived and hardy
Ideal for display — often sits proudly in the open
Good for beginners who don’t handle
Classic Brachypelma traits: slow grower, gentle, chill
Notes
Can be a frequent hair-kicker — their urticating hairs are quite irritating
May be skittish as slings or juveniles
Needs dry conditions — avoid over-misting
Handling is not recommended (but not due to aggression)
