Chilean Rose Tarantula (Grammostola rosea)

The Chilean Rose Tarantula is one of the most commonly imported tarantulas in the trade today. This species of tarantula is a combination of being fairly large, hardy and docile. The Chilean Rose Tarantula can be found in almost any pet store, and can be found in two different color phases. One of the color phases of the Chilean Rose Tarantula is a tan to brown overall color with pink hairs and a pink carapace, while the other is a tarantula with red hairs all over it's body. The photo to the left shows the brown and pink phase. These used to be classified under two different species, but they are now both known as Chilean Rose Tarantulas. There are many pet stores that carry Chilean Rose Tarantulas, although they may be under different names. Some of these names are listed below. The Chilean Rose Tarantula is the ultimate starter species, and should be considered for anybody who wants to dive into the hobby.

Range	Bolivia, Northern Chile, and Argentina, found in many habitats, mostly deserts and scrubland.
Type	Terrestrial.
Diet	Spiderlings eat pinhead crickets, and other small insects. Adults eat crickets, other large insects, and an occasional pinkie mouse.
Full Grown Size	4.5 to 5.5 inches.
Growth	Slow speed.
Temperature	70 to 85° F.
Humidity	75 to 80%. All tarantulas that have at least a 3" legspan may drink from a shallow, wide water dish.
Temperament	Docile and calm.
Housing	Spiderlings can live in a clear plastic deli-container with air holes. Adults can live in a 5 or 10-gallon tank. Floor space is more important than height.
Substrate	2 to 3 inches of peat moss, or potting soil.
Decor	No decorations are really needed, but you can add a log, or cork bark.
Other Names	Chilean Rose Haired Tarantula, Chilean Rose Hair Tarantula, Chilean Common Tarantula, Chilean Fire Tarantula, Chilean Fire Rose Tarantula, and Chilean Flame Tarantula.