
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Aphonopelma mooreae
An Aphonopelma from the mountains of northwestern Mexico with metallic blue to blue-green legs and carapace and dense long red-orange hairs — unusual colouring for the genus. Females are long-lived.
Aphonopelma mooreae Smith, 1995, known as the Mexican jade fuego or North American cobalt tarantula, is named after entomologist Dr Wendy Moore. Its legs grade from metallic blue to black and are covered with long fawn-to-red-orange hairs; the carapace and chelicerae are metallic blue-green and the black abdomen bears long reddish hairs (Wikipedia). 'Fuego' refers to these fiery hairs. It resembles the greenbottle blue (Chromatopelma cyaneopubescens) but is far hairier, with denser, curled hairs. Adults reach about 10-13 cm. Wild females can live up to 25 years; males typically 5-7. It is known mainly from around Yécora, Sonora, in subtropical highland deciduous and pine forest, with GBIF records also from Chihuahua. Terrestrial, it may dig burrows from simple scrapes to more complex tunnels. It looks very different from the three Aphonopelma species already listed.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Mexican jade tarantula lives Wild females up to 25 years; males typically 5-7 years (Wikipedia).
The Mexican jade tarantula grows to Adults about 10-13 cm (Wikipedia).
Origin
Northwestern Mexico (around Yécora, Sonora; Chihuahua)
Lifespan
Wild females up to 25 years; males typically 5-7 years (Wikipedia)
Size
Adults about 10-13 cm (Wikipedia)
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Only A. albiceps and A. pallidum of the genus Aphonopelma are in CITES Appendix II; this species is not. Theraphosidae are neither designated invasive alien species nor taxa requiring an identification certificate on import in Japan (September 2026). Use a lockable enclosure to prevent escapes, and never release captive animals.
Sources: Species+ CITES query (not listed) / Ministry of the Environment: list of regulated alien species, including taxa needing an identification certificate
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Carnivorous (live insects such as crickets and roaches)
Terrestrial and sometimes burrows. Provide deep substrate, a hide and a shallow water dish. Keep singly.
Its native highlands average about 14 C a year, and species care data are scarce. Care information for the congener A. moderatum gives 20-24 C and 50-60% humidity with good ventilation.
Live prey such as crickets and roaches sized to the spider. Remove uneaten prey and wait a few days after a moult before feeding.
Aphonopelma are New World tarantulas that kick abdominal urticating setae in defence; these can cause itching and rashes and may seriously harm eyes, so keep your face away and wash hands after maintenance.
Females are long-lived, so plan for long-term care. Confirm the scientific name, as similar-coloured species are confused. Use a lockable enclosure and never release captive animals.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Mexican jade tarantula is Wild females up to 25 years; males typically 5-7 years (Wikipedia). With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Mexican jade tarantula typically reaches Adults about 10-13 cm (Wikipedia) as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Mexican jade tarantula feeds on: Carnivorous (live insects such as crickets and roaches). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Mexican jade tarantula varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026