The Goliath Pinktoe: A Guide to the Massive Avicularia braunshauseni
The Wow Factor
If you love the fluffy, docile nature of the Pinktoe tarantula but wish they came in a "giant" size, then the Avicularia braunshauseni, commonly known as the Goliath Pinktoe, is the spider of your dreams. As the largest species within the Avicularia genus, this Brazilian beauty takes everything we love about arboreal spiders and scales it up. It features the classic velvety green body and signature peach-pink tips on its toes, but with a much more robust and imposing frame. For the tarantula keeper, the "Braunshauseni" represents the pinnacle of the Avicularia group—a fuzzy, aerial titan that makes a spectacular display animal in a large terrarium.
Size, Growth, and Longevity
The Avicularia braunshauseni truly lives up to its "Goliath" nickname. While standard Pinktoes stay relatively small, this species can reach an impressive diagonal leg span of 16cm to 18cm (6 to 7 inches). Despite its large adult size, it maintains a fast growth rate, racing through its early life stages to establish itself in the canopy. For the tarantula enthusiast, watching a tiny spiderling transform into a massive, heavy-bodied arboreal giant is a rewarding journey. Females can live for 10 to 12 years, providing a long-term companion, while males typically mature within 2 to 3 years.
Temperament and Suitability
Like most of its cousins, the Goliath Pinktoe is celebrated for its docile and calm temperament. It is a new world species that is much more likely to retreat into its silken fortress than to show aggression. While it does possess urticating hairs, it rarely uses them, though it is famously capable of the "jumping" and "pooping" defense mechanisms typical of the Avicularia family.
Because of its gentle nature, it is a fantastic choice for beginners who want a larger spider, or intermediate keepers looking for a centerpiece arboreal. However, due to its size and speed, it should be handled with care and respect. Its movements are graceful but can be surprisingly quick when it decides to "leap" from one branch to another, making it an engaging inhabitant for any collection.
Care
The most important rule for keeping a Goliath Pinktoe in the captivity is the same as for all Avicularia: Cross-ventilation is essential. Because this is a large arboreal species, it requires a tall, spacious enclosure with plenty of airflow to prevent stagnant air, which can be fatal. Ensure your terrarium has ventilation holes on the sides as well as the top.
The setup should include plenty of vertical cork bark and large-leafed artificial plants to support its massive silk tube webs. While they require a humidity level of 70% to 80%, you should achieve this by misting the enclosure walls and webbing rather than keeping the substrate wet. A large water dish (ideally elevated) is a must for this giant. Maintain a temperature of 24°C to 27°C to keep this Brazilian giant healthy and active.
Conclusion
The Avicularia braunshauseni (Goliath Pinktoe) is a true masterpiece of the arboreal world. It offers the gentle, fuzzy appeal of a classic Pinktoe but on a magnificent, "Goliath" scale. For the tarantula keeper who wants a large, docile, and visually stunning display spider that lives in the treetops, this species is an unbeatable choice. It is the perfect blend of impressive size and easy-going personality.
