Invasive-species-florida
Guides
Tliltocatl vagans
Mexican red-rump tarantula, Mexican red rump
Tliltocatl vagans is a large terrestrial tarantula native to Mexico and Central America, distinguished by the distinctive red hairs covering its abdomen. Formerly placed in the genus Brachypelma, this species was reclassified to Tliltocatl following taxonomic revision accepted by the World Spider Catalog. It is a burrowing, nocturnal predator that constructs underground galleries. The species has established a non-native population in Florida since 1996, introduced through the pet trade. Females are notably long-lived, potentially reaching 25–40 years in captivity. Due to habitat destruction, collection pressure, and high juvenile mortality, T. vagans is considered vulnerable to extinction and is protected under CITES Appendix II.