Description
Scientific Name: Tliltocatl kahlenbergi
Common names: Veracruz Red Rump | Kahlenberg’s Red Rump
Brachypelma kahlenbergi is a relatively new species of Brachypelma now described under the Tliltocatl genus, from the Veracruz area of Mexico. Much like other red rump species in the genus, they have velvet looking black legs and a black abdomen/rump covered with larger red fluffy setae/hair. What sets this species apart immediately at a glance is it’s lighter and warmer coloured carapace and a good contrast where the black femurs meet the black velvety patella or knees. Brachypelma kahlenbergi is also said to be found sharing it’s burrows in nature with the Túngara frog, Engystomops pustulosusg which is said to assist in keeping the burrow free of smaller insects and pests. It is not considered to be prey or a threat by the tarantula sharing the burrow and they seem to survive in harmony.
As with most Brachypelma/Tliltocatl species, Tliltocatl kahlenbergi is a docile tarantula that can be considered a good beginner species, slow to become defensive or flick urticating bristles but will do so if subjected to enough disturbance or pestering. In captivity they are known to create shallow burrows but are generally comfortable to stay out in the open if the climate of their enclosure is kept to the recommended values for this species. They eat well, taking multiple feeders at a time if they feel like it and grow at a medium pace.
