Hapalopus guerreroi (Speckle Patch Tarantula)

Hapalopus guerreroi (Speckle Patch Tarantula)

The Speckle Patch Tarantula is a dwarf terrestrial out of Colombia that only gets more striking as it grows. Slings arrive already showing bold black and orange from day one, and juveniles carry that same warm orange and black patterning across the whole body. Adults look like a different animal entirely, with femurs deepening into a velvet black carrying a subtle blue hue, bold orange markings running down the rest of the legs, and an abdomen that turns black with dense red-orange speckles scattered across the surface, a much more chaotic, detailed look than its cousin the Pumpkin Patch. Grab this new world tarantula for sale today if you want one of the most uniquely patterned dwarves in the hobby.

Why do hobbyists keep Hapalopus guerreroi?

• Stunning Coloration: Velvet black femurs with a subtle blue hue, bold orange leg markings, and a densely speckled black and red-orange abdomen make this one of the most detailed color patterns among dwarf tarantulas.
• Drastic Color Change: Slings start bold black and orange, juveniles carry warm orange and black patterning, and adults settle into the deep, speckled look that gives the species its name, a real transformation across every stage.
• Heavy Webber: Builds noticeable webbing throughout the enclosure, keeping the setup looking active and lived in.
• Rare in the Hobby: A relatively recent addition to the hobby that is still building its footing, making it a fun find for collectors who like something less common.

How should Hapalopus guerreroi be kept?

• Adult Size: Reaches around 4 to 5 inches at full leg span, a solidly sized dwarf with real presence.
• Enclosure: Choose an enclosure at least twice the leg span in width, depth, and height. At full adult size that works out to roughly 8 to 10 inches in each dimension, with enough substrate depth to support light burrowing.
• Temperature: 65-75°F, normal room temperature works well.
• Humidity: Keep the substrate damp but not saturated, resembling the texture and color of coffee grounds. Organic coconut fiber works well since it resists mold and holds humidity steadily. Good ventilation is critical.
• Water: A shallow textured water dish works well, something they can grip when climbing out.
• Diet: Crickets, roaches, or mealworms sized to about a quarter of the leg span, matching the width of the carapace (head). Feed at least once a week.
• Temperament: Docile but fast, generally calm day to day but quick to move when startled. Give it secure cover and it settles in well.

Are there any additional notes or considerations?

• Speckled Over Striped: Where the classic Pumpkin Patch shows clean striping, this species carries a scattered, speckled pattern across the abdomen instead, giving it a moodier, more detailed look that's earned it the "goth pumpkin patch" nickname among keepers.
• Ventilation Matters: Proper ventilation helps prevent condensation from building up inside the enclosure, which keeps this species healthy long term.
• Captive Bred: All Tarantulas are 100% captive bred.