Guatemalan Tiger Rump
Davus pentaloris
Theraphosidae (Tarantulas), Order Araneae
Physical Description
A small-sized, terrestrial New World tarantula. It features a compact body with a dark cephalothorax, a distinctly patterned abdomen, and stout, hairy legs representative of the Theraphosidae family.
Size Estimate
Estimated body length of 2-3 inches (5-7 cm) and a leg span up to 4 inches (10 cm). This specimen appears to be an adult or sub-adult.
Coloration & Markings
Features a striking copper or orange-red carapace. The abdomen is dark black with a series of vivid orange or reddish horizontal stripes/vibrant bands, resembling a tiger's pattern.
Web Type
Terrestrial burrower and opportunistic weaver. This species creates thick silk linings within its hide or burrow to detect vibrations from passing prey.
Eye Arrangement
Small ocular tubercle located at the front-center of the carapace containing eight eyes clustered closely together, typical of tarantulas.
Leg Characteristics
Relatively short, thick legs covered in dark setae (hairs). They lack the colorful banding found on the abdomen but may show subtle copper highlights near the joints.
Venom & Safety Information
Venom Information
Mild venom typical of New World tarantulas. Not considered medically significant to humans; effects are usually comparable to a bee sting.
Medical Significance
Low danger level. The primary concern is localized pain from a bite or irritation from urticating hairs if they come into contact with skin or eyes. No specific treatment required unless an allergic reaction occurs.
Safety Recommendations
Use long forceps for feeding to avoid accidental bites. When moving the spider, use the 'cup and card' method. If urticating hairs touch skin, wash with soap and water; avoid touching eyes after handling enclosure decor.
Habitat & Behavior
Habitat & Range
Native to Central America, specifically Guatemala and parts of Mexico. They reside in tropical forests, often found in burrows or under fallen logs and leaf litter.
Behavior & Temperament
Generally skittish and prone to fleeing rather than biting. While they possess urticating hairs, they are less likely to flick them than some other New World species. They are active primarily at night.
Diet & Prey
Insectivorous, feeding on crickets, roaches, and mealworms. They are ambush predators that strike when prey touches the silk radiating from their hide.
Seasonal Activity
Active year-round in tropical climates, with increased movement and mating activity typically following the onset of the rainy season.
Description
The Guatemalan Tiger Rump is a gem of the tarantula world, prized by hobbyists for its stunning abdominal patterns. Despite its small size, its vibrant orange 'tiger stripes' make it highly visible in a terrarium. It is a hardy species that provides a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of Central American rainforest floors.
Key Features
Bold orange horizontal stripes on a dark abdomen, copper-colored carapace, and a smaller adult size compared to large 'giant' tarantulas.
Similar Species
Often confused with Davus fasciatus (Costa Rican Tiger Rump), though D. pentaloris is more common in the pet trade and has slightly different leg coloration and geographic origin.
Life Cycle
Females can live up to 10-12 years, while males live significantly shorter lives (3-4 years). They produce egg sacs containing several hundred spiderlings which disperse after their first molts.
Ecological Importance
Serves as a vital population control for ground-dwelling insects in its native range and acts as a food source for larger predators like coatis and birds.
Conservation Status
Not currently listed by the IUCN, but like many tropical species, it faces threats from habitat destruction and over-collection for the exotic pet trade.
Interesting Facts
Unlike many large tarantulas that take a decade to mature, the Tiger Rump is a relatively fast grower. It is excellent for 'bioactive' terrarium setups due to its moderate web production and predictable burrowing habits.
Photography Tips
Focus on the abdomen to capture the 'tiger' pattern. Use a macro lens or digital zoom from a distance to avoid startling the spider, as they are very sensitive to air movement.
Identified: 2026-07-06T18:43:21.484191