Psalmopoeus cambridgei
-Trinidad Chevron

Description

Scientific Name: Psalmopoeus cambridgei

Common Names: Trinidad Chevron

Not for beginners. Although this new world tarantula it has no urticating bristles and uses intimidation via a threat pose or defense with it’s bite and venom to protect itself. They can be unpredictable in a tense situation in that it may hunker down, or bolt. This tarantula will also jump if it thinks that’s the way out, so be extra careful, a bite is not a good idea. The venom of the Trinidad Chevron – Psalmopoeus cambridgei can be considered medically significant, in fact it is the source of psalmotoxin, which is used in the treatment of strokes.

The Trinidad Chevron is a fantastic spider to own and watch, with a hearty appetite an explosive response to feeding. Generally more active at night, this bird spider makes beautiful webbed structures for it’s hide, which is usually at the base of a hollow vertical hide, like bamboo or a curved piece of cork bark. It’s temperament is generally manageable, it’s only during cleaning or maintenance that one should take care because with it’s unpredictable temperament and feisty feeding response this is when most bites happen.

The Psalmopoeus species is known to be unpredictable and very skittish, turning to defensive and even aggressive if they are constantly provoked or feel trapped in a corner. Their hide is their home. Don’t trespass unless you really have to.