Typhochlaena seladonia Care Sheet, a.k.a The Brazilian Jewel Tarantula

Typhochlaena seladonia, aka the Brazilian Jewel Tarantula, is a small arboreal tarantula from Brazil known for its trapdoor behavior and highly specialized lifestyle.

Unlike typical arboreals, this species lives directly on bark surfaces, constructing a camouflaged trap that sits flush against the cork. They are stationary ambush predators and rely heavily on proper enclosure setup to thrive.

Before you browse through our pool of Brazilian Jewels for sale, it helps to know what to expect from slings to adults.

Brazilian Jewel Tarantula Enclosure Setup

• Use a vertical (arboreal) enclosure with more height than floor space
• Provide flat cork bark, ideally centered in the enclosure. It should not touch the sides, if possible
• Cork is essential. This species will not behave naturally without it
• For slings, drill shallow holes into the cork to mimic natural insect burrows
• Lightly add cork shavings or fine sphagnum to help with camouflage
• Ensure good cross ventilation

Tip: Position the cork so the Brazilian Jewel tarantula can build its trap in a visible area for better observation, and make it “standing” in the middle of the cage to simulate a tree and for easier rehousing later

Temperature

• Between 65–75°F is fine. Thrives in 75-85°F as well.
• Stable room temperature works well. Slightly warmer temperatures are preferred since the Brazilian Jewel is a tropical species.

Humidity

• Maintain moderate to high humidity
• Keep substrate slightly moist, but not wet
•  Allow enclosure surfaces to dry within 24 hours
• Avoid stagnant, damp conditions to prevent mold

Water

• Provide a small water dish (vial-style works well for arboreals)
• Helps maintain stable humidity without over-misting and allows the animal to drink as needed

Feeding

• Feed small crickets (recommended), fruit flies, or roaches
• Slings benefit from pre-killed prey to ensure they can easily find and consume food
• Place prey near or on cork surfaces where the spider is active
• Feed once per week, and adjust based on the abdomen size
• Use the carapace (head) as a reference for appropriate prey size. Prey should generally be no larger than the carapace.

Behavior & Temperament

• Docile and non-defensive
• Extremely reclusive and will remain hidden inside its trap
• Relies on camouflage rather than speed or aggression
• May wander if not established or if food is not detected

Trapdoor Behavior

• Builds a flush, camouflaged trap using silk and surrounding material
• Trap blends into cork in both color and texture
• Will ambush prey from the entrance and pull it inside
• Trap construction may be delayed until the spider successfully feeds

Common Issues You Might Encounter While Caring for a Brazilian Jewel Tarantula

Not Building a Trap

• Most spiders need to eat first before they begin trap construction
• If using pre-killed prey, make sure it's placed somewhere easy to find
• Verify the cork has enough texture. Drilled holes will help significantly.
• A water dish encourages settling; light misting can also help by signaling humidity
• Patience matters. Some individuals take weeks to construct their first trap.

Wandering Behavior

• Wandering is normal before the spider establishes a trap
• Usually resolves on its own after the first successful feeding and a few days of settling

Overly Wet Enclosure

• Can discourage natural behavior
• Can cause wondering
• Rehouse with fresh soil

Looking for Brazilian Jewel Tarantulas for Sale?

If you've read this care sheet and feel ready to bring one home, Exotics Unlimited is one of the most trusted sources for this species. We even have Brazilian Jewel Tarantula slings for sale, so you can watch the trap-building behavior develop from a young age!

Before you get your first one, set up the enclosure first. Get cork bark and check ventilation, moisture levels, and everything else. A Brazilian Jewel Tarantula that walks straight into the right environment will start showing its natural behaviors much faster.