As the common name (Brazilian White Knee) might imply the Acanthoscurria geniculata is a native of Brazil.
Larger than some of the more common pet tarantula species, growing up to 7 or 8 inch legspan, this spider is almost entirely black , and has broad white stripes on it’s legs – hence the name.
Far less common than some other popular pet tarantula species, the Brazilian White Knee is typically a lot more expensive, and is easier to find for sale in Europe than in America.
The striking appearance and larger size of this speecies do make it more attractive as a pet to many hobbyists, however, and there doesn’t seem to be a shortage of people willing to pay the extra cost for this
Acanthoscurria geniculata – Brazilian White Knee Care Sheet
Scientific Name: Acanthoscurria geniculata
Also Known As: Brazilian Whiteknee Birdeater, Brazilian Black and White Stripe Birdeater, White Knee Tarantula, Whiteknee Bird Eating Tarantula, Giant White Knee Birdeater, and Santarem Pink Haired Bird Eating Tarantula.
Range: Forests of northern Brazil.
Size: 7 to 8 inches.
Life Span: Females up to 15 years. Males much less.
Housing: Due to the larger size of this speecies, a liarger than usual enclosure is recmomended. Adults can live in a 10 to 15-gallon tank. Floor space is more important than height.
Substrate: 3 to 4 inches of peat moss, or potting soil.
Decor: Logs, driftwood, cork bark, etc. make good hiding places. Moss can be added for floor cover.
Temperature: 80 to 85° F.
Humidity: 75 to 80%. Occassional misting is recommended.
Growth: Fast
Diet: Gut-loaded crickets, other large insects, small lizards, pinkie mice, and an occasional fuzzy mouse.
Tarantulas that have at least a 3″ legspan may drink from a shallow, wide water dish.
Temperament: Semi-aggressive and nervous.
Notes: The Acanthoscurria geniculata is very prone to flicking it’s urticating hairs with little provocation, so handling this species is not recommended.
Urticating Hairs are very itchy and can cause a very irritable rash on humans.
The Brazilian White Knee, while it can be nervous, appears to have no desire to hide like other species and is one of the more visible tarantulas, making it an excellant choice as a display pet.
For a comprehensive guide to Acanthoscurria geniculata – Brazilian White Knee Tarantula care, visit:
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