
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Avicularia merianae
An arboreal Avicularia from San Martín, Peru, described in the 2017 revision of the genus. The trade name Tarapoto comes from a town in its main recorded range.
Avicularia merianae Fukushima & Bertani, 2017, also called the shadow flame pinktoe, is an arboreal tarantula described in a major 2017 revision of Avicularia and related genera. It is named after the naturalist-painter Maria Sibylla Merian, known for her work on tarantulas (Wikipedia). It is endemic to Peru; all GBIF records are from San Martín, where Tarapoto, the source of its trade name, is located, and the description includes photographs of its retreat in the wild. Avicularia long lumped many species, so trade names and scientific names were unstable, and different species still circulate under the same name after the revision. Care information for the genus notes that Avicularia rub rather than kick their type II urticating setae. It differs in colour from the four Avicularia already listed; captive-bred young, for example from Korea, are sold in Japan.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Primary sources giving its size or lifespan are scarce.
Origin
South America (San Martín, Peru)
Lifespan
Little data
Size
Little data
Carnivorous (live insects such as crickets and roaches)
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.
Primary sources
Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). 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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Arboreal. Use a tall enclosure with upright cork bark for the web, vents in both top and sides, shallow substrate and a permanent water dish.
Species data are scarce. Care information for A. avicularia gives 21-27 C and 60-70% humidity, stressing thorough cross-ventilation to prevent stagnant air.
Live prey such as crickets and roaches sized to the spider. Remove uneaten prey and wait a few days after a moult before feeding.
Avicularia are docile but fast and may jump when startled. Their type II setae are rubbed rather than kicked, and the venom is considered weak.
Trade and scientific names are unstable in this genus; confirm the scientific name and origin. 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.
Shadow flame pinktoe feeds on: Carnivorous (live insects such as crickets and roaches). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Shadow flame pinktoe varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026