Aphonopelma seemanni - Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula (Sling)

Aphonopelma seemanni (Costa Rican Zebra / Striped Knee Tarantula)

The Costa Rican Zebra Tarantula is a true hobby classic — calm, hardy, and beautifully marked with bold zebra stripes that never go out of style. If you love natural burrowing behaviour, long-lived species, and a tarantula that thrives with minimal fuss, Aphonopelma seemanni is an outstanding addition to your collection.

Native to Central America, this terrestrial species is known for its calm, collected temperament and impressive longevity. While not a constant "on-display" spider, it rewards patient keepers with fascinating underground tunnel systems and confident, steady feeding responses. Ideal for beginners stepping into serious keeping and experienced hobbyists alike.

With its striking black body, crisp white knee bands, and adaptable care requirements, the Costa Rican Zebra remains one of the most reliable and rewarding tarantulas in the hobby.

Experience Level
Beginner to Intermediate
Hardy and forgiving, but naturally shy and burrow-oriented

Enclosure Type
Terrestrial with deep substrate
Floor space plus depth is essential for natural burrowing behaviour

Adult Size
5–6 inches (12–15 cm) leg span

Substrate
5–6+ inches of moisture-retentive substrate
Coco fibre or soil mix, slightly moist at the bottom and drier on top

Temperature
70–78°F (21–26°C)

Humidity
65–75%
Keep lower substrate layers lightly moist; avoid waterlogged conditions

Décor & Setup
• Cork bark hide or half log
• Leaf litter or moss
• Water dish (always available)
• Allow space for natural burrow construction

Feeding
• Crickets, roaches, mealworms
• Slings: 2–3× per week
• Juveniles: Weekly
• Adults: Every 10–14 days
Steady, confident feeders when hungry

Temperament
Generally calm and non-defensive
Skittish and prone to retreating rather than threat posturing

Handling
Not recommended
Prefers minimal disturbance and may bolt if startled

Lifespan
Females: 20+ years
Males: 5–6 years

Special Notes
• A true burrower — visibility improves with security
• Very hardy and adaptable
• Excellent long-term species for patient keepers
• Avoid overly dry or constantly soaked substrate

Add this hardy, long-lived burrower to your collection today and enjoy a timeless tarantula favourite.

Photo credit: Cerre, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons