Panama Gold (Aphonopelma belindae)

A newly described gem from Panama, Aphonopelma belindae is a rare and elegant terrestrial tarantula with warm golden tones and that signature Aphonopelma calmness. With its subtle beauty and slow-growing nature, it's perfect for patient keepers looking for a laid-back display or educational species.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Panama Gold

Scientific Name: Aphonopelma belindae

Origin: Panama

Size: 4.5–5 inches (11–13 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

• Females: 15–20+ years
• Males: ~5–6 years

Temperament: Docile and calm, can be shy — classic Aphonopelma behavior

Coloration

Golden-bronze to light honey-brown carapace

Subtle sheen over darker legs and abdomen

Overall appearance is earthy with a gentle gold wash

Not flashy — more of an understated natural beauty

Housing & Care

Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — floor space over height

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

Humidity: 60–70% — mist one side lightly every few days

Temperature: 70–78°F (21–26°C)

Decor:

• Cork bark hide or half log
• Leaf litter and moss for cover
• Water dish (always clean and full)

Tends to burrow or rest in shallow scrapes; may web lightly near its hide.

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms

Feeding Schedule:

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

Calm, deliberate feeder — not aggressive, but reliable

Why Keep One?

Rare and recently described — unique addition to any collection

Peaceful and hardy — perfect for quiet observation

Earthy gold tones make for a subtly beautiful display spider

Excellent educational species for those learning about New World terrestrials

Long lifespan and low maintenance

Notes

Slow-growing, especially as a sling

Not very active — may spend time in its hide or burrow

Not a great handling species — though docile, prefers to be left alone

Doesn’t tolerate overly damp conditions — monitor humidity carefully