1. Native Habitat: This species thrives in India’s Western Ghats, living in humid forests and scrublands with deep burrows for safety from predators. (Image: Canva)
2/10
2. Stunning Violet Shine: Its legs and carapace reflect dazzling violet tones under light, making it one of the most visually captivating tarantulas globally. (Image: Canva)
3/10
3. Ground Dwelling Spider: A fossorial species, it builds tunnel systems underground, emerging mainly at night to hunt and explore surroundings cautiously. (Image: Canva)
4/10
4. Fast and Defensive: Quick movements and threat postures help it fend off threats. It prefers escaping over biting but reacts if cornered aggressively. (Image: Canva)
5. Strong Webbing Skills: They line burrow walls with thick silk, extending trip-lines outside to detect vibrations from insects passing by. (Image: Canva)
6/10
6. Venom Effects: Bites usually cause local pain and swelling in humans. They are not deadly but extremely uncomfortable for several hours. (Image: Canva)
7/10
7. Female Dominance: Females live longer than males, sometimes over fifteen years, making them preferred among enthusiasts for long-term captivity. (Image: Canva)
8/10
8. Carnivorous Diet: Feeds on insects, small lizards and occasional vertebrates, ambushing prey with speed and powerful venom for immobilisation. (Image: Canva)
9. Reproduction Behaviour: Males carefully tap silk near female’s burrow, hoping she accepts; mating risky due to potential cannibalism. (Image: Canva)
10/10
10. Conservation Status: Habitat loss threatens stability of wild populations; protection of Western Ghats ecosystems crucial for species’ survival. (Image: Canva)
