Guatemalan Tiger Rump Tarantula
Davus pentaloris
Theraphosidae (Tarantulas), Order Araneae. Key characteristics include heavy bodies with long sensory hairs (setae) and two pairs of book lungs.
Physical Description
A small New World terrestrial tarantula with a compact, stocky build. It features a distinct orange and black striped pattern on the abdomen reminiscent of a tiger. The cephalothorax is usually a copper-bronze or reddish-gold hue, and the legs are covered in fine tactile hairs with faint blue or iridescent sheen visible under certain light.
Size Estimate
Leg span of 3 to 4 inches (7.5-10 cm) at maturity. The specimen in the photo appears to be a juvenile or sub-adult based on body-to-container proportions.
Coloration & Markings
Features a brilliant copper-colored carapace. The abdomen is velvet black punctuated by five pairs of bright orange or reddish lateral stripes. The legs are generally dark brown to black with subtle reddish hairs.
Web Type
Terrestrial/Fossorial. They do not build orb webs but are prolific heavy webbers, lining their burrows and surrounding areas with thick layers of silken 'carpeting' for protection and vibration detection.
Eye Arrangement
A small ocular tubercle (eye mound) on the anterior edge of the carapace containing eight small eyes clustered closely together, typical of theraphosids.
Leg Characteristics
Relatively short and robust legs designed for digging and crawling. Covered in urticating hairs (defense) and sensitive setae for detecting prey vibrations.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses mild venom intended for paralyzing small insects. It is considered low potency for humans, roughly equivalent to a bee sting in a non-allergic individual.
Medical Significance
Low danger level. No known deaths or serious medical complications from this species. Primary defense is fleeing or kicking urticating (itching) hairs rather than biting. Seek medical attention only if an allergic reaction occurs.
Safety Recommendations
Avoid handling with bare hands as the urticating hairs can cause skin and eye irritation. Use a soft brush or 'catch cup' for relocation. Keep out of reach of pets and children to avoid accidental falls which can be fatal for tarantulas.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Primarily found in Guatemala and parts of Mexico. They prefer tropical dry forests where they live in burrows or under fallen logs and leaf litter.
Behavior & Temperament
Skittish and fast-moving compared to larger tarantula species. Generally not aggressive but will retreat quickly to its burrow if startled; rarely displays a threat posture unless cornered.
Diet & Prey
Opportunistic carnivore. Diet consists of crickets, roaches, mealworms, and other small invertebrates which it captures with a sudden burst of speed and 'pinning' with its pedipalps.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round in tropical climates, though activity levels increase during the rainy season when humidity is higher and mating opportunities arise.
Description
The Guatemalan Tiger Rump is a stunning 'dwarf' tarantula species beloved by hobbyists for its vibrant tiger stripes and heavy silk production. Unlike giant tarantulas, this species remains manageable in size while displaying complex burrowing and webbing behaviors that make it a fascinating subject for observation.
Key Features
Copper carapace, orange-on-black abdominal stripes, small size, and heavy terrestrial webbing.
Similar Species
Cyclosternum fasciatum (Costa Rican Tiger Rump) which is closely related but has slightly different leg coloration and geographic origin.
Life Cycle
Females can live 10-12 years; males live shorter lives (3-4 years). Females lay egg sacs containing 100-300 spiderlings. They grow moderately fast and molt frequently as juveniles.
Ecological Importance
Serves as an important predator of ground-dwelling insects, helping to control pest populations within its tropical ecosystem.
Conservation Status
Not currently listed on the IUCN Red List, but local populations are threatened by habitat loss due to agriculture and the illegal exotic pet trade.
Interesting Facts
Despite being New World, they are known to be far more active and fast than most 'docile' South American species. They are considered one of the 'must-haves' for display because they modify their environment extensively with silk.
Photography Tips
Shoot from a low angle at the 'spider's eye level' to capture the abdominal stripes and carapace color. Avoid using a direct harsh flash as it can wash out the subtle iridescent sheen on the legs.
Identified: 2026-07-06T18:48:10.157102