Scientific Name: Heterothele gabonensis
Common Name: Gabon Blue Leg Tarantula (unofficial/common trade name)
Origin: Gabon (Central Africa)
Classification: Old World
Lifestyle: Semi-arboreal / Opportunistic webber
Appearance:
A small to medium-sized tarantula with a metallic blue sheen on the legs (especially after a fresh molt).
The carapace is golden-bronze, and the abdomen may have a faint pattern.
Similar in build and structure to Heterothele villosella but with more vibrant leg coloration.
Temperament:
Typically shy and skittish, but not particularly defensive.
Fast and alert, but not prone to biting unless provoked.
Like others in the genus, lacks urticating hairs due to Old World lineage.
Enclosure Tips:
Provide vertical structures for climbing and webbing (cork bark, twigs).
They web heavily when comfortable, creating thick silken retreats.
Keep humidity moderate (65–75%) with good airflow, and temperatures around 75–80°F (24–27°C).
Notes:
Much rarer in the hobby than Heterothele villosella.
Beautiful but subtle coloration, ideal for enthusiasts of dwarf or display-oriented species.
No confirmed communal behavior like H. villosella, so best kept solo unless proven otherwise in a controlled setup.