The Brazilian Jewel: A Guide to the Beautiful Arboreal Trapdoor Tarantula
Introduction
In the world of rare arachnids, few species command as much awe as the Typochlaena seladonia, more famously known as the Brazilian Jewel. This tarantula is a literal living gem, boasting a breathtaking palette of metallic blue legs paired with vibrant metallic green and red patches across its abdomen. Originating from the tropical forests of Brazil, it is a marvel of evolution—one of the very few arboreal trapdoor tarantulas known to science. Unlike most tree-dwelling spiders that wander or build silken funnels, the Brazilian Jewel crafts a masterpiece of camouflage, building a functional trapdoor directly onto the bark of trees to ambush unsuspecting prey. Its rise in popularity within the UK hobby is driven by this unique combination of intense colouration and fascinating architectural behaviour.
Size, Growth, and Longevity
The Typochlaena seladonia is a true dwarf species, prioritizing intricate beauty over sheer scale. Adult females reach a maximum diagonal leg span of only 5cm, making them small enough to thrive in specialized, compact environments. Because they are a smaller species, their growth rate is relatively fast compared to larger giants. However, it is important for the keeper to note that this tarantula has a much shorter lifespan than many other new-world counterparts. Females typically live for only 5 to 6 years, while males have a much shorter life cycle, reaching maturity and completing their life in approximately 2.5 years. This shorter window makes every developmental stage a precious experience for the enthusiast.
Temperament and Suitability
While its colours are welcoming, the Typochlaena seladonia is widely regarded as a fragile and demanding species. It is a new-world tarantula, lacking the potent venom of old-world types, yet its survival depends on very precise husbandry. Its temperament is secretive; it is an ambush predator that spends the vast majority of its time behind its expertly crafted trapdoor. It does not engage in heavy webbing across the enclosure, instead focusing all its energy on its singular door and the immediate area.
Due to its extreme sensitivity to environmental fluctuations and its unique nesting requirements, this species is strictly advised only for advanced tarantula keepers. It is not a beginner-friendly spider. A keeper must be well-versed in maintaining delicate balances of hydration without over-saturating the air, making it a "prestige" animal for those who have mastered the nuances of arboreal care.
Enclosure Setup
The habitat for a Brazilian Jewel must be carefully curated to mimic its niche in the wild. As an arboreal trapdoor builder, the enclosure must provide natural tree bark or cork flats where the spider can attach its door. Unlike many tropical species, the substrate must not be kept wet; stagnant, damp conditions and excessively high humidity can be fatal to this spider very quickly.
However, hydration is still critical. The keeper must regularly mist the trapdoors and the sides of the enclosure, as the spider will emerge to drink droplets from these surfaces. This balance of a dry substrate with targeted misting for drinking is the secret to success with this new-world beauty. The enclosure should be set up to encourage its natural hunting behaviour, where it waits behind the trapdoor for prey to wander within range of its hidden door.
Conclusion
The Typochlaena seladonia (Brazilian Jewel) is the ultimate prize for a dedicated tarantula keeper. Its metallic blue, green and red hues, combined with its rare arboreal trapdoor lifestyle, make it a true masterpiece of the tarantula hobby. While its fragile nature and shorter lifespan require an expert hand and precise environmental control, the reward of witnessing one of nature's most beautiful species at home is unparalleled. It truly is the jewel of any advanced collection.
