Chilean Rose Tarantula

Grammostola rosea

The Chilean rose tarantula, Grammostola rosea, is a heavy-bodied terrestrial tarantula from arid and semi-arid parts of Chile and nearby South America. It is also called the Chilean rose hair tarantula, and older pet-trade animals have sometimes been confused with the closely related Grammostola porteri. Color varies from muted brown to pinkish or rosy tones on the carapace and hairs. Like many desert-edge tarantulas, it grows slowly and may spend long periods resting or refusing food.

Keepers value this species for its generally calm nature, but handling should be minimal because falls can injure a tarantula and urticating hairs can irritate skin and eyes. A simple, well-ventilated enclosure with dry substrate, a hide, and a shallow water dish suits most adults better than a damp tropical setup. Captive-bred spiderlings are preferable when available, as wild-caught imports have declined and may be older than expected. Molting, fasting, and slow growth are normal parts of its management.