Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula, Striped-knee Tarantula
Aphonopelma seemanni
Theraphosidae (Tarantulas), Order Araneae. Characterized by large size, heavy hair, and parallel fangs.
Physical Description
A medium-to-large heavy-bodied spider with a characteristic velvety texture. The carapace is round and dark, and the abdomen is oval-shaped and covered in fine setae (hairs). Unlike many Old World species, this New World spider possesses urticating hairs on its abdomen.
Size Estimate
Body length typically 2 to 2.5 inches (5-6 cm) with a leg span reaching 4 to 5 inches (10-13 cm). This specimen appears to be a sub-adult or adult based on the definition of the leg markings.
Coloration & Markings
Deep black or dark brown ground color. Distinguished by brilliant white or cream-colored longitudinal stripes on the patellae ('knees') and tibiae. The spinnerets are often peach or tan colored, which is a diagnostic feature for this species.
Web Type
The species does not build aerial webs. It is an opportunistic burrower that uses silk to line deep burrows and create a 'doorbell' trip-wire system around the entrance to detect vibrations from passing prey.
Eye Arrangement
A small ocular tubercle on the front of the carapace containing eight eyes clustered closely together. As a burrower, its vision is poor, relying primarily on mechanoreceptors (hairs) to sense the world.
Leg Characteristics
Stocky, powerful legs designed for digging. Features double white stripes on the upper segments. The undersides of the front legs may have a slightly different hue, and the tarsi possess dense pads of iridescent hairs (scopulae) for gripping surfaces.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Possesses a mild cytotoxic venom used to liquefy the insides of its prey. It is not considered medically significant to humans; the potency is often compared to a bee sting.
Medical Significance
Low danger level. The primary medical concern for humans is the urticating hairs, which can cause allergic reactions or respiratory distress if inhaled. Bites cause localized pain and swelling but no systemic toxicity in healthy adults.
Safety Recommendations
If found, do not handle with bare hands due to irritating hairs. To relocate, use the 'cup and cardboard' method. If hairs get on skin, use duct tape to pull them out; if in eyes, seek medical attention immediately.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Native to Central America, particularly Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala. They inhabit open semi-arid scrublands and deciduous tropical forests, where they live in deep burrows to escape the heat.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally skittish and prone to fleeing rather than biting. They are nocturnal burrowers. If threatened, they will first attempt to run, then may flick 'urticating' hairs from their abdomen which cause intense irritation to the eyes and skin.
Diet & Prey
Generalist carnivore. Diet consists mostly of insects like crickets, beetles, and roaches. Larger individuals may occasionally take small lizards or pinky mice in the wild, though invertebrates are the staple.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round in tropical climates, but activity increases during the rainy season when males wander in search of mates.
Description
The Costa Rican Zebra is a stunning example of New World tarantulas, beloved by hobbyists for its striking white-on-black striped legs. Deep in the soils of Central America, these architects dig elaborate tunnels where they wait for the cover of night to ambush unsuspecting insects.
Key Features
White longitudinal stripes on the patella and tibia; tan/peach colored spinnerets; dark velvety carapace; fossorial (burrowing) lifestyle.
Similar Species
Aphonopelma burica (similar but restricted range); Eupalaestrus campestratus (Pink Zebra Beauty), which has more textured, tan/pinkish stripes and a calmer demeanor.
Life Cycle
Females can live up to 15-20 years, while males typically live only 5 years, dying shortly after reaching maturity. For reproduction, the male deposits sperm on a web and transfers it to the female; she later lays an egg sac containing 200-500 eggs.
Ecological Importance
Acts as a vital population controller for ground-dwelling insects. They also serve as a food source for specialized predators like the Pepsis wasp (Tarantula Hawk).
Conservation Status
Not currently listed by the IUCN, but populations face pressure from habitat destruction and the exotic pet trade. Always ensure specimens are captive-bred.
Interesting Facts
They are known for their 'ballet' like movements when cleaning themselves. Also, while most spiders have four spinnerets, the tan-colored spinnerets of the Zebra tarantula are particularly easy to spot.
Photography Tips
A top-down (dorsal) shot is best to capture the striping pattern and carapace. Use a macro lens for detail on the setae, and avoid using a harsh direct flash which can wash out the white stripes.
Identified: 2026-07-06T19:47:32.262067