Mexican Redknee Tarantula
Brachypelma hamorii
Theraphosidae (Tarantulas), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A medium-to-large, heavy-bodied terrestrial tarantula. The carapace is dark with a distinct tan or orange border. The abdomen is covered in dark hairs with scattered longer reddish-orange setae. The specimen in the image appears to be a juvenile or sub-adult, showing characteristic fuzzy 'urticating' hairs and a stocky build.
Size Estimate
Based on the enclosure and substrate, the specimen's body length is roughly 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) with a leg span of 4-5 inches. Adults can reach a leg span of 5-6 inches (15 cm).
Coloration & Markings
Jet black base color on the legs and abdomen. Distinctive vibrant orange-red bands on the patella (knees) of the legs. The carapace features a black central region surrounded by a creamy-beige or light orange perimeter. This specimen shows the classic 'Redknee' pattern clearly.
Web Type
Does not build typical webs for prey capture. As a terrestrial burrower, it produces silk to line its burrow for structural integrity and 'tripwires' near the entrance to detect vibrations from passing prey.
Eye Arrangement
Small ocular tubercle located at the front center of the carapace, containing eight eyes in two compact rows. Their vision is limited, primarily sensing light levels and motion at short distances.
Leg Characteristics
Thick, powerful legs covered in fine sensory hairs. The patella (knees) are highlighted with orange-red rings. The legs end in tiny tarsal claws and dense hair tufts called scopulae that allow them to grip surfaces.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses a mild neurotoxic venom used to subdue insects. For humans, the venom is generally considered low potency, often compared to a bee sting in intensity unless the individual is allergic.
Medical Significance
Low medical significance. Bites are rare due to their docile nature but can cause localized pain and swelling. The primary medical concern is the urticating hairs, which can cause severe irritation to human skin, eyes, and respiratory tracts.
Safety Recommendations
If handled, do not hold at a height; a fall can rupture their abdomen. Avoid touching your eyes after contact with the spider or its enclosure to avoid urticating hair irritation. Use tongs for feeding.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Native to the Pacific coast of Mexico, specifically in the states of Colima, Jalisco, and Michoacán. They prefer dry scrubland and deciduous tropical forests.
Behavior & Temperament
Known for its docile and calm temperament. It is a slow-moving terrestrial ambush hunter. When threatened, it is more likely to retreat or flick urticating hairs from its abdomen rather than bite.
Diet & Prey
Opportunistic carnivore. Diet consists mostly of insects like crickets, roaches, and mealworms. In the wild, large adults may occasionally take small lizards or frogs.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round in their native warm climate, but sightings increase during the rainy season when males wander in search of mates.
Description
The Mexican Redknee is the quintessential tarantula of the hobbyist world, famed for its striking beauty and calm demeanor. Its velvet-black body punctuated by fiery orange knees makes it an iconic representative of the Mexican desert and scrub landscapes.
Key Features
Black carapace with light border; orange-red 'knees' (patella); heavy coating of light-colored hairs; terrestrial burrowing habit.
Similar Species
Brachypelma smithii (virtually identical and formerly considered the same species; B. hamorii is the more common species in the pet trade) and Brachypelma auratum (Mexican Flame Knee, which has a more distinct 'flame' shape on the leg).
Life Cycle
Females are very long-lived, reaching up to 25-30 years; males live much shorter lives, roughly 5-10 years. They undergo multiple molts to grow, as evidenced by the discarded exuvia (molt) visible in the bottom right of the image.
Ecological Importance
Acts as an apex invertebrate predator in its microhabitat, controlling insect populations. They serve as a food source for specialized predators like the Pepsis wasp (Tarantula Hawk).
Conservation Status
Listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN and protected under CITES Appendix II. Habitat loss and illegal pet trade are the primary threats.
Interesting Facts
This species became so popular in the 1970s and 80s due to the movie 'Raiders of the Lost Ark' that it became one of the first spiders to be protected by CITES to prevent over-collection from the wild.
Photography Tips
A top-down angle like in the provided image is best for identifying carapace and knee markings. Use soft, diffused light to avoid glares on the plastic container or the spider's waxy carapace.
Identified: 2026-07-06T19:09:11.079044