12/12/2025
The Mexican fireleg tarantula (Brachypelma boehmei) is a common and popular invertebrate pet. Native to a limited region of the Mexican Pacific coast, these terrestrial tarantulas can be opportunistic burrowers. The species is considered to have a slow growth rate. Females may live for around 25 years or more, while males may live for around 7-8 years.
As these are very colorful tarantulas, and known for remaining somewhat active outside of their hides and burrows, they can be a good choice for a display animal. Noted for being a bit more defensive than other tarantulas of the same genus however, and more willing to utilize their urticating hairs, caution should be taken when moving these tarantulas.
The species is listed as globally endangered, and is frequently bred and reared under human care. If you are interested in keeping a Mexican fireleg tarantula as a pet, ensure that you support responsible tarantula keeping by seeking out captive bred animals.
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The photograph used in this post shows a pet Mexican fireleg tarantula (Brachypelma boehmei). The copyright holder of this file, Micha L. Rieser, allows anyone to use it for any purpose, provided that the copyright holder is properly attributed. Redistribution, derivative work, commercial use, and all other use is permitted. The image was not altered for use in this post.
