Davus sp. "Panama" (Lava Tarantula) - Care Sheet

The Davus sp. "Panama", affectionately known as the Lava Tarantula, is a gem of the hobby. While it is technically a "dwarf" species, it is on the larger side of that category and is famous for its glowing red-orange abdomen and carapace that truly look like molten lava.

Unlike many other dwarf species that can be "pet holes" (always hidden), the Lava Tarantula is often quite visible, making it a spectacular display animal.

Quick facts

Scientific Name | Davus sp. "Panama" (formerly Theraphosinae sp. "Panama") |

Type New World Terrestrial / Opportunistic Burrower

Origin Panama

Adult Size | 3 – 4 inches (7.5 – 10 cm) |

Growth Rate Moderate to Fast

Temperament | Generally docile but can be skittish/bolty

Lifespan | Females: 12–15+ years

Husbandry Requirements

1. Enclosure Setup

* Size: A 5-gallon tank or a medium-sized acrylic enclosure (roughly 8" x 8" x 8") is ideal for an adult.

* Substrate: Provide 3–4 inches of a moisture-retaining substrate like coconut fiber, topsoil, or a peat moss mix. This allows for light burrowing.

* Decor: Include a piece of cork bark for a hide and some fake plants or real moss. They are prolific webbers and will often incorporate decor into their web tunnels.

* Safety Note: Avoid mesh tops if possible; tarantulas can get their tarsal claws stuck in them.

Temperature & Humidity

* Temperature: Thrives at standard room temperatures (72°F – 80°F). If you are comfortable, they are comfortable.

* Humidity: They prefer moderate to high humidity (65% – 75%).

* The Method: Instead of heavy misting (which can stress them), keep one corner of the substrate damp and provide a small, shallow water dish.

* Ventilation: Good cross-ventilation is vital to prevent stagnant air and mold, especially with dampened substrate.

3. Feeding & Diet

The Lava Tarantula has a fantastic feeding response and is rarely a picky eater.

* Slings: Feed flightless fruit flies (Drosophila hydei) or pinhead crickets twice a week.

* Adults: 2–3 medium crickets or a small Dubia roach once every 7–10 days.

* Behavior: They are known for "tackling" their prey with surprising speed.

Handling & Temperament

While they are New World tarantulas (meaning they lack medically significant venom), they are fast.

* Defense: They possess urticating hairs and will flick them if they feel threatened.

* Speed: They are prone to "bolting" rather than biting. If you need to move them, use a catch cup rather than your hands.

* Vulnerability: Slings can be quite sensitive to dehydration. Once they hit the 1-inch mark, they become much hardier.

> Pro Tip: Because they are "opportunistic burrowers," if you provide a starter burrow (a small hole under their hide), they are more likely to establish themselves quickly and feel secure enough to stay out on display.