Aphonopelma steindachneri(Steindachner’s Ebony Tarantula)

🖤 Steindachner’s Ebony Tarantula

Aphonopelma steindachneri

🌑 A West Coast Classic with Velvet Elegance

Steindachner’s Ebony Tarantula (Aphonopelma steindachneri) is a beautiful terrestrial species native to California and Baja California, Mexico. Known for its deep, velvety black to dark brown coloration, this understated beauty is often compared to the beloved Grammostola pulchra (Brazilian Black) for its similar dark elegance.

For patient keepers, this species offers a calm temperament and long-term display value.

✨ Key Characteristics

🖤 Appearance

• Uniform, rich black or dark brown coloration

• Soft, velvety texture

• Classic, robust New World build

🐢 Temperament

• Docile and slow-moving

• Rarely defensive

• Possesses urticating hairs but seldom uses them

• Excellent display species for calm environments

🌵 Habitat & Setup

As a New World terrestrial species from arid scrublands:

• Dry substrate (slightly compactable soil blend works well)

• Good cross-ventilation

• Shallow water dish

• Simple hide for security

• Avoid excessive humidity

They thrive in clean, well-ventilated, low-moisture enclosures that mimic their natural dry habitat.

⏳ Growth & Lifespan

Like many Aphonopelma species:

• Extremely slow-growing

• Long-lived (females can live for decades)

• A true long-term commitment

Patience is rewarded with a hardy, steady, and visually striking tarantula.

🌙 Natural History

• Primarily nocturnal

• Males wander during mating season in search of females

• Native to arid regions and scrublands of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico

🌎 Conservation & Responsible Keeping

Within the hobby, it is strongly encouraged to prioritize captive-bred specimens over wild-caught individuals.

Removing mature females from the wild can significantly impact local populations — especially given their slow growth and long lifespan. Ethical breeding and habitat preservation are essential to ensure the long-term survival of this remarkable species.

🖤 The Patient Keeper’s Tarantula

If you appreciate subtle beauty, calm temperament, and long-term dedication, Steindachner’s Ebony Tarantula is a refined and rewarding addition to a responsible collection.