Vietnam Blue (Chilobrachys Dyscolus)

The Vietnam Blue (Chilobrachys dyscolus) is definitely a hidden gem in the tarantula hobby. If you're a fan of fast, colorful, and exotic tarantulas, this species should be high on your radar. Known for its striking blue highlights and bold personality, it's one of the more rarely kept but highly prized tarantulas for those seeking something out of the ordinary.

Quick Facts

Common Name: Vietnam Blue

Scientific Name: Chilobrachys dyscolus

Origin: Vietnam (found in dense, tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia)

Size: Around 5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span

Lifespan:

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

Temperament: Very defensive and fast — will flick hairs, and not afraid to throw a threat display

Coloration:

• Mostly dark brown/black body with vivid blue highlights on the legs and sometimes the abdomen
• These blues are especially pronounced when the tarantula is well-lit

Housing

Enclosure Type: Terrestrial but will burrow a lot, so give plenty of floor space

Substrate: 4–6 inches of coco fiber or peat moss for burrowing

Humidity: 60–70% (not too humid)

Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)

Decor:

• Cork bark hide, half logs, or flat stones for them to burrow under
• Water dish and leaf litter for added security
• Don’t overcrowd, as these spiders enjoy having room to roam

Feeding

Diet: Crickets, dubia roaches, superworms, and even small mice for full-grown adults

Feeding Frequency:

• Slings: 2–3 times a week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 10–14 days
• Great feeders — they’re aggressive and quick to catch prey

Why They’re So Cool

Stunning blue highlights are a major draw for collectors

A bit more exotic than some of the more popular species, making them a conversation piece

Amazing burrowers — their burrows can be intricate and fun to watch as they construct and maintain them

Hardy species that adapt well to captivity

Notes to Consider

Defensive behavior — expect a lot of threat poses and potentially hair flicking if they feel threatened

Not a good handling species, especially since they’re so fast and defensive

Fast movers — they can be a bit of a challenge to rehouse

Their beautiful blue legs aren’t always visible in slings, but they’ll start to show up more as they mature