Ecuadorian Crowned Beauty (Hapalopus Planet Earth)
The Crowned Jewel of the Tarantula Hobby!
The Hapalopus Planet Earth. (Exe Yasuni), commonly known as the Ecuadorian Crowned Beauty is currently one of the rarest species in the USA, with fewer than 30 individuals in the country. With pristine aquamarine legs, a pastel yellow, starburst-shaped carapace, and a vivid orange abdomen, this tarantula is truly a living work of art. Impressively, it grows to an astonishing 7+ inches in leg span, making it a dazzling centerpiece for any collection.
Behavior and Personality
The Planet Earth isn’t just about looks—it’s a fascinating predator with heavy webbing habits, creating a silk fortress that acts as an extension of its body. Watching this tarantula ambush prey is nothing short of mesmerizing, as it displays lightning-fast precision and power. Despite its apex predator prowess, the Yasuni is surprisingly calm and confident. Unlike its cousin T. columbia, this species rarely spooks or darts away. Instead, it carries itself with regal pride, often staying in full display within its enclosure, as if fully aware of its royal status.
Experience Level - Beginner
Personality - Docile, confident, tolerant of handling and non-defensive!
Adult size - 7+ inches
Lifespan - 25+ years
Growth rate - fast to medium
Theraphosidae sp. Yasuni Care - Give this species a large semi-arboreal enclosure with plenty of anchor points! This will allow your Yasuni to properly web up its enclosure! Keep in mind there a heavy webbing species that need humid substrate as slings but drier substrate once they reach 2.5+ inches in DLS! As large juveniles, it’s essential that you give them a water dish that you over flow every other week! lastly this species requires adequate ventilation!
