C.natanicharum (Electric Blue Earth Tiger) ♂

Опис

Chilobrachys natanicharum, commonly known as the Electric Blue Earth Tiger, is a visually stunning Old World fossorial tarantula recently described in 2022. Originally entering the hobby as Chilobrachys sp. Electric Blue, this species gained official recognition when its specific epithet was auctioned for charity, with the winning name honoring Natakorn Changrew and Nichada Changrew. The proceeds from this naming auction were used to support the education of Lahu children in Thailand and assist impoverished cancer patients, making this species’ discovery particularly meaningful.

This tarantula displays brilliant blue iridescence, a rare phenomenon in the arachnid world. Unlike pigments, this blue coloration is the result of structural coloration, specialized nanostructures in the exoskeleton that reflect light. Blue tarantulas are an exclusive club, with this coloration evolving independently at least eight times in different species.

One of the most intriguing aspects of C. natanicharum is its unusual burrowing behavior. Unlike most Chilobrachys species, which are obligate burrowers, this tarantula has been found in tree hollows in mangrove forests as well as burrows in the ground. This suggests that while it exhibits fossorial tendencies, it may also be comfortable utilizing arboreal hides, making it an adaptive species in captivity.

Unfortunately, C. natanicharum is facing threats due to habitat destruction and poaching. As a result, all tarantulas in Thailand are now listed as controlled wildlife, requiring a license from the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation for legal import or export. To preserve this species, captive breeding and conservation efforts are crucial.