Aphonopelma chalcodes, commonly known as the western desert tarantula, desert blonde tarantula, Arizona blonde tarantula or Mexican blonde tarantula, is a species of spider belonging to the family Theraphosidae. It has a limited distribution in the deserts of Arizona and adjacent parts of Mexico but can be very common within this range. The common name "blonde tarantula" refers to the carapace, which is densely covered in pale hairs, and contrasts strongly with the all-dark legs and abdomen. Additionally, these spiders have low toxicity, a long life expectancy, and several offspring.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
We have no record of Desert Blonde Tarantula being toxic, poisonous or venomous. That is not proof that it is safe. Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Aphonopelma iodius
- Aphonopelma eutylenum
- Aphonopelma pallidum
- Aphonopelma hentzi
- Aphonopelma johnnycashi
- Aphonopelma anax
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Arachnida
- Order
- Araneae
- Family
- Theraphosidae
- Genus
- Aphonopelma
- Species
- Aphonopelma chalcodes
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