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The Tarantula's Environment

Not only are tarantulas one of the largest land invertebrates, they are one of the longest living as well. Tarantulas live all over the world, in nearly every country. Different species have different environmental requirements but the majority of species can be found in similar conditions. There are more than 300 species of tarantula worldwide, of which 40 live in the United States.

Habitat
- The largest tarantula species is the goliath bird-eating spider.
  
  Most tarantulas live in warm climates, particularly South American rainforests. In the United States, however, they live generally in arid climates. In the rainforest, species will either make their homes in the trunks of trees or in small burrows in the ground . In arid regions, the spiders will always make their homes in the ground. Tarantulas do not use their silk for spinning spider webs. Instead, they line their homes with it.
Breeding
- Tarantulas live for about 30 years.
  
  If the tarantulas live in ground burrows, the males will enter the females' burrows in order to mate. In arid climates, the males will search for females to breed with only at night, usually after rainstorms. If the spiders live in tree trunks, the females will leave a trail of silk that the males must follow to find them. Males also may find females by scent.
Pet Environment
- Tarantulas are often kept as pets by spider lovers.
  
  Pet tarantulas are usually kept in 5- or 6-gallon tanks. The temperature must be between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Heating pads are usually kept on the bottom of the tank to ensure the proper temperature. Tarantulas do not need extra lighting; they do not like bright lights. The tank bottom is filled with soil. A hiding place that the spider can crawl into needs to be provided, along with a water dish. Leaves, logs and plants may also be included, but are not necessary.
Environmental Concerns
- Tarantulas raise up on their hind legs when they feel threatened.
  
  Many species of tarantula are threatened. This is due, in part, to over collection in the pet trade, but more so because their habitats are being destroyed. Many species are endemic to a region, so once their habitat is destroyed, they die out. Rainforest tarantulas suffer the same fate as other plants and animals of the rainforest, losing their habitat when forests are destroyed for farming and urban development. Arid region tarantulas also suffer from habitat destruction because of increased number of housing developments and commercial industries in their native areas.

Insects & Science