Aphonopelma bicoloratum

Scientific Name: Aphonopelma bicoloratum
Common Name: Mexican Blood Leg
Type: Terrestrial
Category: New World
Endemic Location: Southwestern Mexico
Diagonal Leg Span (DLS): Approx 5″
Growth Rate: Slow
Life Expectancy: Females upto 25 years / Males approx 7 years
Recommended Experience Level: Beginner

The Mexican Blood Leg Tarantula is the perfect blend of striking coloration, calm temperament, and impressive longevity. With its warm orange legs contrasting beautifully against its dark velvety body, Aphonopelma bicoloratum is a true standout among New World species. Its proportionate, well-balanced build gives it an elegant appearance, making it a highly sought-after display tarantula.

Beyond its looks, this species is known for its relaxed demeanour and steady feeding response. While spiderlings and juveniles tend to be more skittish, often retreating into burrows when disturbed, mature specimens gain confidence with age. Adults are more likely to remain out in the open, showing off their vibrant colours and making them an excellent display species. Unlike some tarantulas that vanish into their hides for weeks at a time, a well-acclimated A. bicoloratum will often stay visible, adding a bold splash of colour to any collection.

If you’re looking for a tarantula with stunning colours and a mellow personality, Aphonopelma bicoloratum, commonly known as the Mexican Blood Leg or Mexican Beauty, might just be the perfect pick. Native to the dry forests and scrublands of southwestern Mexico, this terrestrial species is a true gem in the hobby, boasting a rich orange coloration that sets it apart from its flashier cousins like Brachypelma boehmei. While the two species are often confused, A. bicoloratum tends to showcase a more uniform orange hue, lacking the deeper red tones seen in B. boehmei.

Though it grows at a notoriously slow pace and maxes out at a modest 5-inch diagonal leg span, this tarantula more than makes up for it with its striking appearance and calm demeanour. Its docile temperament makes it an excellent candidate for beginner keepers, while its vibrant colours and long lifespan make it a rewarding addition to any collection. Whether you’re new to the hobby or a seasoned keeper looking for a low-maintenance display species, the Mexican Blood Leg is a fantastic choice.