Beyond the Buzz: Discovering the Exotic Charm of the Neon Blue Tarantula
The Wow Factor
In 2019, the tarantula world was rocked by the discovery of a spider so vibrant it looked like it belonged in a sci-fi movie: the Birupes simoxigorum, commonly known as the Neon Blue Leg. Hailing from the ancient rainforests of Sarawak, Borneo, this species is arguably one of the most beautiful arachnids on the planet. It features a creamy, coffee-coloured carapace and abdomen that provides a stark, incredible contrast to its intense, electric neon-blue legs. For the tarantula keeper, the "Birupes" is a true collector's piece—a rare, high-contrast old world gem that represents the very cutting edge of the hobby.
Size, Growth, and Longevity
The Birupes simoxigorum is a medium-sized tarantula, reaching an adult diagonal leg span of approximately 12cm to 13cm. It possesses a sleek, elegant build characteristic of many Asian arboreal and fossorial lineages. In terms of development, they have a moderate growth rate. While they aren't as slow as some high-altitude species, they require a consistent environment to thrive and progress through their moults. Females are estimated to live for 10 to 12 years, allowing the enthusiast plenty of time to appreciate their glowing blue hues as they mature into stunning adults.
Temperament and Suitability
As an old-world species from Southeast Asia, the Neon Blue Leg is strictly for advanced keepers. It lacks urticating hairs and relies on its incredible speed and potent venom for defense. While they are often shy and prefer to retreat into their burrows, they can be extremely fast and defensive if cornered or disturbed during maintenance.
This is not a "pet rock"; it is a high-sensitivity animal that requires a keeper with steady hands and experience managing fast old world spiders. In the tarantula hobby, the Birupes simoxigorum is a "prestige" animal. Successfully raising one from a tiny, fragile spiderling to a glowing blue adult is considered a significant achievement among serious hobbyists.
Care
The Neon Blue Leg is a fossorial (burrowing) species that lives in the humid, leaf-littered floor of the Bornean jungle. To replicate this in the captivity, you must provide a deep enclosure with at least 15cm of moisture-retaining substrate. They are prolific silk workers and will create beautiful, web-lined tunnels that often extend to the surface.
Environmental stability is the key to success. They require high humidity—around 75% to 80%—but it is vital to avoid a "swampy" or stagnant environment. Good cross-ventilation is essential to keep the air fresh while maintaining moisture. Temperatures should be kept stable between 24C and 30C. Because they are shy, providing plenty of leaf litter and a starter burrow will help them settle in and begin their construction. They have a good appetite for standard feeders like crickets and roaches, but they are most active under the cover of darkness.
Conclusion
The Birupes simoxigorum (Neon Blue Leg) is a true masterpiece of evolution. Its electric blue legs and sophisticated cream body make it one of the most visually arresting tarantulas ever discovered. While its old world speed and specific humidity needs require an expert hand, the reward of owning a living neon light from the heart of Borneo is unparalleled. For the advanced tarantula keeper, the Birupes is the ultimate symbol of the hobby's beauty and mystery.
