{"product_id":"monocentropus-balfouri-ptasznik-sokotra-blekitny-koralowy","title":"Monocentropus Balfouri: Socotra Blue Baboon (Coral) Tarantula","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb style=\"color: rgb(78, 86, 95);\"\u003eColonial Beauty and Vibrant Blue – A Fascinating Arboreal\/Terrestrial Species\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​Monocentropus balfouri, originating from the remote island of Socotra (Yemen), is one of the most desired and fascinating tarantulas in terraristics, known for its ability to form colonies. Also called the Socotra Blue Baboon or M. balfouri, it stands out with its beautiful, metallic blue coloration, often with an orange or pink hue on its abdomen and legs. It is a moderately fast and defensive species that can be kept in groups, intended for intermediate to experienced keepers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e​Natural Habitat and Geographical Origin\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​M. balfouri is endemic to the island of Socotra, located in the Indian Ocean. It inhabits dry and semi-dry areas, where it digs extensive burrow systems, but also occupies rock crevices and spaces under bark, making it a partially arboreal\/terrestrial species. Its unique feature is its ability to live cooperatively in a colony, where females jointly raise their young.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eMorphology and Size\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​Adult Monocentropus balfouri specimens reach a leg span of up to 15-17 cm (6-6.5 inches). Their body is covered with dense, metallic blue hairs, which are particularly intense on their legs and carapace. The abdomen is often darker, with rusty or orange hairs that may also appear on the leg joints.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e​Behavior and Temperament\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​M. balfouri is a moderately fast and defensive species. When threatened, it usually tries to escape but can be lightning-fast and will not hesitate to attack. Its venom is stronger than that of New World tarantulas and can cause pain, muscle cramps, and numbness. It does not possess urticating hairs. What distinguishes this species is its social behavior – it can be kept in groups (appropriately prepared), where females often jointly care for their young.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e​Feeding Habits\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​In nature, their diet consists of insects and other small invertebrates. In group keeping, it is important to provide an adequate amount of food to prevent cannibalism. They should be fed appropriately sized feeder insects, such as crickets, cockroaches (e.g., Turkish, Argentine), or locusts. It is recommended to feed them 1-2 times a week.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eLifespan\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​Female Monocentropus balfouri are long-lived and, under optimal husbandry conditions, can live from 12 to 18 years. Males have a significantly shorter lifespan, usually 3 to 5 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eHusbandry Requirements\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eTerrarium: \u003c\/b\u003eFor a single specimen, a terrarium approximately 30x20x20 cm. For a colony, a much larger terrarium is required, e.g., 60x40x40 cm or larger, with multiple hides. Excellent ventilation is crucial.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eSubstrate: \u003c\/b\u003eA deep layer of substrate (15-20 cm) should be placed at the bottom of the terrarium, e.g., coconut fiber with sand, to allow the spiders to dig burrows.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e​Decor: \u003c\/b\u003eMany pieces of bark, rocks, cork, to provide numerous hiding spots and structures for climbing and web-building.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/b\u003e The optimal temperature is 24-28°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eHumidity:\u003c\/b\u003e Maintain moderate humidity at 60-75% by partially misting the substrate once every few days.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eWater:\u003c\/b\u003e A shallow water dish should always be available.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eSuitable for Hobbyists\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​Monocentropus balfouri is a species intended for intermediate to experienced keepers, especially if colonial keeping is planned, which requires particular attention. Its speed and defensiveness require caution, but its unique colonial behavior makes it incredibly satisfying to observe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​\u003cb\u003eWhy Choose This Species?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e​If you are looking for a tarantula with mesmerizing, metallic blue coloration, fascinating colonial behavior, and dynamic activity, the Socotra Blue Baboon is an ideal choice. It is a true treasure that will provide unforgettable observation experiences.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SpidersManiac","offers":[{"title":"1-day notice period","offer_id":55892212973945,"sku":null,"price":50.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true},{"title":"1.5L NS","offer_id":55892213006713,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true},{"title":"2dc NS","offer_id":55892213039481,"sku":null,"price":70.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true},{"title":"2.5mo ♀️","offer_id":55892213105017,"sku":null,"price":120.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true},{"title":"2.5dc ♂️","offer_id":55892213170553,"sku":null,"price":40.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true},{"title":"3D C. ♀️","offer_id":55892213203321,"sku":null,"price":160.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true},{"title":"3dc ♂️","offer_id":55892213236089,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"PLN","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0934\/0531\/5449\/files\/0be8b5e57501a9d1fc54396e629c8c72_b878027c-d030-4c0d-ac29-337127975d89.jpg?v=1759219489","url":"https:\/\/spidersmaniac.com\/en\/products\/monocentropus-balfouri-ptasznik-sokotra-blekitny-koralowy","provider":"SpidersManiac","version":"1.0","type":"link"}