Determining the gender of a pet tarantula can be a bit more challenging compared to other common household pets like cats and dogs. Unlike mammals,arachnids do not have external markers that clearly indicate thier gender. However, with some careful observation and examination, it is possible to determine the sex of your tarantula. Here are some tips on how to identify the gender of your pet tarantula:
Examining the Physical Traits
One way to determine the gender of a tarantula is by examining its physical traits.though, this method requires a lot of experience and a calm spider that will allow you to handle it without stress or retaliation.It is indeed also crucial to note that this method is only useful for very experienced tarantula keepers.
If your tarantula has a leg span of at least two inches, you can look for specific traits that are only present in males. These include “boxing gloves” and tibial hooks on their legs, and also a longer and lankier appearance compared to females. However, these traits may not be easily recognizable for most owners.
Another indicator of gender is size. Female tarantulas tend to be larger and have longer lifespans compared to males, making them highly sought after in the hobbyist community. However, this trait may not be helpful when dealing with juvenile spiders that have not undergone many molts.
Using the Molted Exoskeleton
The most reliable method of determining the gender of a tarantula is by examining its molted exoskeleton. Though, it can be challenging to acquire an intact molt. It is best to secure the molt while it is still semi-pliable as it can crumble when dry.
To determine the gender, you need to look between the first set of book lungs or respiratory organs. Female spiders have a spermathecae, which is where they store sperm until they are ready to lay eggs. Males do not have this organ and their molt will appear smooth in this area.
Notably spermathecae may look different in different spider species. For most species, it looks like a flap or small protrusions. if there are no visible structures in this area, then you likely have a male spider.
Determining Gender at a Mature Stage
It is not possible to determine the gender of a baby tarantula or spiderling as they have not fully developed their sex organs yet. It is also difficult to examine them closely enough to make an accurate assessment.Usually, you can begin to determine the gender of a spider when it has reached maturity and leaves behind an intact molt.
I never knew you could determine the gender of a tarantula, fascinating!