Exotic Invertebrate Encyclopedia — 70 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular exotic invertebrates—tarantulas, scorpions, centipedes and more—with care guides, traits, and difficulty levels.
Showing 7 of 70 species
American Giant Millipede
Narceus americanus
A large, hardy millipede from eastern North America with a brown body ringed in red, and a gentle detritivore that is one of the best beginner species.
Arizona Blonde
Aphonopelma chalcodes
A North American desert terrestrial species clad in pale blonde hair. Very docile, drought-hardy and long-lived, though famously slow-growing.
Brazilian Black
Grammostola pulchra
A South American terrestrial species cloaked in jet-black velvety hair. Prized for its calm temperament and rich color, it is hardy and long-lived.
Chilean Rose Tarantula
Grammostola rosea
A Chilean terrestrial species with a soft rose tint. Tolerant of dry conditions, long-lived and one of the oldest classic beginner tarantulas.
Desert Hairy Scorpion
Hadrurus arizonensis
A large scorpion from the deserts of the southwestern US, named for the sensory hairs covering its body. Venom is mild (bee-sting-like) but it needs dry, deep burrowing substrate.
Mexican Redknee
Brachypelma hamorii
A classic terrestrial tarantula from Mexico with iconic red-orange leg markings. Docile, slow-moving, hardy and long-lived, it is one of the most popular beginner species worldwide.
Mexican Redleg
Brachypelma emilia
A Mexican terrestrial species with red legs and a distinctive black triangle on the carapace. Slow-growing but docile and hardy, it is a long-time hobby favorite.
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Exotic Invertebrate FAQ
- What are exotic invertebrates? Can beginners keep them?
- It's a general term for invertebrates centered on arachnids and myriapods such as tarantulas, scorpions, millipedes, and whip scorpions. Hardy species like the Chilean rose tarantula and terrestrial millipedes are relatively easy to keep and popular with beginners.
- How much do exotic invertebrates cost?
- Common hardy tarantulas run 3,000-30,000 yen, while rare species exceed tens of thousands. Scorpions are around 2,000-15,000 yen and millipedes 1,000-5,000 yen. Prices vary with rarity, size, and whether the animal is captive-bred (CB).
- How long do exotic invertebrates live?
- Female tarantulas are remarkably long-lived, reaching 10-20+ years depending on species, while males live only 1-3 years after maturity. Scorpions live 5-8 years and millipedes roughly 3-10 years depending on species, with many kept long-term through repeated molts.
- What equipment is needed for exotic invertebrates?
- Basics include a secure enclosure, substrate (moisture-retaining or dry depending on species), a shelter, and a water dish. Many species need heating, so prepare a heat mat and a thermometer-hygrometer. Arboreal tarantulas need height and climbing structures, while burrowing species need deep substrate.
- What safety precautions apply to exotic invertebrates?
- While most tarantulas have mild venom, urticating hairs and bites can trigger allergic reactions. Some scorpions and centipedes are venomous enough to require medical attention, so always research each species' risks in advance. Keep enclosures securely sealed and locked to prevent escapes.