Brachypelma smithi (Formerly Annitha)(Mexican Giant Red-knee)

Brachypelma smithi, the True Mexican Redknee Tarantula, is one of the most iconic and recognizable tarantulas in the world. Native to the Pacific coastal foothills and thorn scrub regions of Guerrero, Mexico, this species epitomizes the calm temperament, vibrant coloration, and longevity that define the Brachypelma genus. Its rich black body is contrasted by brilliant orange-red patellae (“knees”) and a soft tan carapace marked by a central black triangle—an unmistakable pattern that has made it a favorite among enthusiasts for decades. In the wild, B. smithi constructs silk-lined burrows in compact clay soils beneath rocks or roots, providing refuge from predators and insulation from the arid surface heat. It is a slow-growing, deliberate, and docile species, spending much of its life near the entrance of its burrow. In captivity, it thrives under semi-arid conditions with deep substrate, stable temperatures, and light seasonal humidity changes—ideal for display, breeding, and educational exhibits alike.

• Scientific Name: Brachypelma smithi

• Adult Leg Span: 5–6 inches

• Country of Origin: Mexico (Guerrero)

• Habitat: Tropical Dry Forest and Thorn Scrub (400–900 m elevation); compact clay and loamy soils with sparse vegetation, warm daytime temperatures 78–88°F, cooler nights 65–70°F, and relative humidity 55–70%, with monsoon rains from June to September

• Habits: Terrestrial / Burrowing

• Growth Rate: Slow