Hapalopus planetearth (Ecuadorian Crowned Tarantula) (formerly Theraphosinae sp. 'Yasuni') 1-1.5"

Hapalopus planetearth (Ecuadorian Crowned Tarantula)

Hapalopus planetearth, formerly known in the hobby as Theraphosinae sp. "Yasuni," is a newly described dwarf species out of Ecuador's Yasuni National Park. Adults of this species feature an iconic reflective golden crown on the carapace (head) with a matte black coloration that makes the color pop. The abdomen is a bright yellow orange with unique black margins and grey legs, making this species really stand out among anything else in the hobby, and we can personally attest that photos do not do these justice, our adults are simply stunning and are super fun to watch grow. The babies of this species are just as striking, showing a smaller version of the adult look with pink legs, a golden reflective carapace, and the same pattern as the adults, which is cute to see even at this early stage. With each molt these change slightly, eventually gaining their full adult colors later in life. As one of the first groups of this species to reach the US, this is a rare opportunity to add a genuinely new world tarantula for sale to your collection before it becomes widely established in the hobby.

Why do hobbyists keep Hapalopus planetearth?

• Stunning Coloration: The yellow-orange, black, and gold crowned design stands out immediately, making this one of the most unique and stunning tarantulas in the world.
• Colorful Spiderlings: Even spiderlings pack a punch of color with stunning orange, pink, and black coloration that is like a miniature version of the adults, gradually changing as they grow.
• Great Display Species: The added climbing activity keeps this dwarf more visible than many ground dwelling species its size.
• Heavy Webber: Builds noticeably dense webbing and makes frequent use of climbing space in the enclosure.
• Great Feeding Response: This species loves to eat, just like many other tropical species in the hobby.
• Rare in the Hobby: Among the first specimens of this newly described species to arrive in the US, a true find for collectors who like being early.

How should Hapalopus planetearth be kept?

• Adult Size: Reaches around 4 inches at full leg span. A true dwarf that still brings plenty of presence to a small setup.
• Enclosure: Provide a terrestrial setup roughly 3 times the leg span in width and depth, and 2 times the leg span in height, with substrate at least equal to the leg span in depth. Add cork bark or branches as anchor points to support this species' climbing and webbing habits. For a half inch sling, start small, around 2 by 2 by 2 inches, and size up as it grows.
• Temperature: This species prefers warmer temperatures from 80 to 90°F, but will be fine at 65 to 75°F. We recommend keeping them warmer if you can provide it through ambient heating, not a heat source like a heat lamp or heating pad since these dehydrate invertebrates quickly.
• Humidity: Keep the substrate from drying out, this species does best with a bit more moisture on hand given its origins in one of the wettest regions of Ecuador. Good ventilation is critical. Cross ventilation works best, but ample top ventilation can also be effective as long as the enclosure is not over misted.
• Water: A shallow textured water dish works well, something they can grip when climbing out.
• Diet: Crickets, roaches, and similar feeders sized to the carapace (head). Feeds aggressively and grows quickly with regular feeding.
• Temperament: Fast and alert, quick to explore rather than stay tucked away. Can be skittish but more docile overall. Not an aggressive or defensive species, though it can startle easily.

Are there any additional notes or considerations?

• Climbing Behavior: Keepers have noticed this species climbing more and webbing more heavily than is typical for the genus, likely tied to the high humidity of its Yasuni National Park origins. Anchor points like cork bark help this natural behavior shine.
• Newly Described: This species was only recently described and is still building its footing in the hobby, making early keepers part of establishing its care standards.
• Captive Bred: All Tarantulas are 100% captive bred.

Listing Notes

• This listing includes multiple size options. Animals are unsexed, there is approximately a 50/50 chance of male or female on most species.

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Planet Earth Tarantula from?
This species is endemic to Ecuador, particularly found in the Yasuni region of the Amazon Basin. Its common name references the reflective gold coloration on the carapace, which resembles a crown and gives it a regal appearance.

How large does the Hapalopus planetearth tarantula get?
Both females and males reach a leg span of approximately 4–5 inches (10–13 cm).

Is Hapalopus planet earth venomous and dangerous to humans?
Like all tarantulas, it has venom, but it is not medically significant to humans. Bites are rare due to their docile nature, and envenomation would produce minor localized effects similar to a bee sting. The species is not considered a threat.

Are Hapalopus planetearth tarantulas aggressive?
Hapalopus planetearth is classified as a tropical terrestrial species. They tend to be skittish and reactive rather than aggressive, and shouldn't be assumed docile just because they aren't aggressive. They may threat posture (raising front legs) rather than bite. They are manageable and can be handled, though they aren't among the most docile or easily handleable tarantulas.

What are the enclosure requirements for a Hapalopus planetearth tarantula?
A 5–10 gallon tank or equivalent (roughly 12x12x8 inches) is adequate for adults. The species prefers moderate humidity (60–70%) and temperatures between 70–78°F. Substrate should be 2–3 inches deep to allow for burrowing, though this species also climbs. See tarantula enclosures for sale.

How long do Ecuadorian Crowned Tarantulas live?
Males mature in around 2–3 years. Females can live 10–15 years in captivity with proper care.

What do Hapalopus planetearth tarantulas eat and how often?
They feed on appropriately sized insects: crickets, roaches, mealworms, superworms, hornworms, dubia roaches, grasshoppers, and other invertebrates. Juveniles eat smaller prey weekly or as needed; adults can be fed larger prey every 7–14 days. They are opportunistic hunters and generally good feeders. Explore feeder insects for sale.

Is this species a good pet for beginners?
This species is best suited for beginner-intermediate keepers rather than true beginners. As a moisture-sensitive tropical terrestrial species, it requires more attentive humidity management than the arid terrestrial species typically recommended for first-time keepers, and it also tends to carry a higher price point. Keepers with some prior experience will find its care manageable.

How can you tell males from females?
This species shows little visible difference until fully grown. Upon maturing, males develop slightly more green coloration on their legs and are noticeably leggier than females. Females also develop green legs, but with a white hue toward the feet. Aside from these subtle cues, both sexes look essentially identical until males reach their final molt. Sexing is done through molt sexing.

How rare is this species?
It is considered a very rare species, and currently one of the newer and more sought-after (viral) tarantulas on the market, prized for its bright orange-yellow coloration, medium size, and unique patterns. Specimens offered are among the first to arrive in the USA. Stocks run out quickly. Get a Hapalopus planetearth for sale today.