Peru Green Velvet (Thrixopelma pruriens)

A beautiful but often overlooked South American terrestrial, Thrixopelma pruriens is named for its deep greenish sheen and velvet-like appearance. While not as common in the hobby as other New World species, it’s a hardy and fascinating tarantula for intermediate keepers who enjoy active, visible spiders with a touch of boldness.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Peru Green Velvet

Scientific Name: Thrixopelma pruriens

Origin: Peru

Size: 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

• Females: 12–15 years
• Males: 3–4 years

Temperament: Nervous, can be defensive; quick to flick urticating hairs

Coloration

Dark olive-green to brown body with a velvety finish

Carapace often darker with subtle green hues

Legs may show bronze or copper iridescence depending on lighting

Densely hairy, giving it a plush appearance

Housing & Care

Enclosure Type: Terrestrial — requires more floor space than height

Substrate: 4–6 inches of slightly moist substrate (coco fiber/topsoil mix)

Humidity: 65–75% (don’t overdo it — prefers moderate levels with a water dish)

Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)

Decor:

• Cork bark hide or half-log
• Leaf litter, moss for a natural setup
• Water dish with fresh water at all times

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, roaches, mealworms, locusts

Feeding Schedule:

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

Eager feeders, often striking prey with confidence

Why Keep One?

Unique greenish velvet coloration not seen in many tarantulas

Hardy and fairly easy to care for

Bold feeding response and fun to watch

Less common in the hobby — a collector’s species

Notes

Can be skittish and defensive — not a handling species

Urticating hairs are extremely irritating — use caution when cleaning

Not as showy as some species; may hide often if not secure

More of a collector’s choice than a beginner’s pet