Selenotypus
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Selenotypus plumipes |
The Selenotypus genus include some of the largest of Australia's theraphosids. At present, the only recognised species within this genus is Selenotypus plumipes, but this is expected to change, as it is becoming apparent that the genus has a wide distribution, and at present Australian theraphosids as a whole are poorly classified.
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[edit] Morphology
Selenotypus plumipes is one of Australia's largest, if not the largest, spiders. Adults can attain a legspan in excess of 16 cm, with fang lengths of up to 1 cm (10 mm). Primarily various shades of brown in colour, it is characterised by its 4th legs being longer than its forelegs, and it has large piloerect bristles on its back two pairs of legs. This has led to its common name of the "Australian Featherleg".
[edit] Behaviour
Like all Australian theraphosids, and old world tarantulas in general, S. plumipes are shy and reclusive by nature, and defensive if disturbed. This being said, the species does have a reputation for being calmer than other Australian species. Like most Australian tarantulas, S. plumipes has the ability to make a hissing noise if agitated, known as stridulation.
In the wild, S. plumipes inhabit arid-zone grassland regions, and such are adapted to live in these harsh conditions. The species are obligate burrowers, constructing burrows up to 50 cm in depth, which helps maintain temperature. During bush-fires, they have been seen to place snail-shells over their burrows to keep out the heat.
They are largely opportunistic predators, and will take most prey items it can overpower. There has been verified instances of small birds from farms, such as baby chickens, having been preyed upon by these spiders. The venom of these spiders is not deadly to humans, but mechanical damage from the penetration of the large fangs can be caused, and local symptoms such as swelling and pain can be felt. In some rare instances, more general systemic symptoms such as nausea can be felt. The venom also appears to be deadly to dogs, with a study showing seven bitten all died, some within half an hour of being bitten.
[edit] In captivity
The keeping of tarantulas in captivity is a growing hobby in Australia, but with the country's strict export laws, only local species can be kept. As one of Australia's largest and more docile species, S. plumipes is a favourite in the hobby. Being clean, quiet animals that require little space, their popularity is on the increase.
A glass fish tank is sufficient to keep these spiders in. Ideally, the tank should be deep enough to allow the spider to burrow, and should be of dimensions to allow the spider to roam if it wishes. Still, with a full-grown spider, the tank need not be more than 40 cm in length and 30 cm width. The species can be kept on a variety of substrates, but peat moss or coco peat are the recommended materials. This should be kept damp and be pressed firmly, so as to allow the spider to construct tunnels without the risk of it falling in. Different keepers have different approaches to substrate depths, but it is best to recreate conditions in the wild as best as possible, so a depth of at least 10cm in encouraged so the spider can burrow. Humidity is important, especially when the spider is moulting, although fresh air should be allowed to circulate from time to time i.e. during feeding time. A shallow water bowl should be provided, and misting of the tank is recommended if the tank becomes dry.
When young, the spider can be feed quite regularly, but as it grows older, it is not necessary to feed it more than once or twice a week. Prey items can include crickets, wood cockroaches, mealworms and, when fully grown, pinkie mice (although this is not necessary).
Although S. plumipes is fairly docile compared to other Australian tarantulas, it is still an unpredictable, wild animal that is venomous, and as such it should not be handled. The species is largely nocturnal, and so it is beneficial to obtain a small wattage red globe. The spider is unable to detect this wavelength, and will go about its way undisturbed, allowing the keeper to observe. In areas colder than their natural habitat, this globe can also double as a heat source. It should be directed on the tank from at least 15-20 cm away, to prevent the threat of the tank overheating.
[edit] References
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