Megaphobema mesomelas

Megaphobema mesomelas, also known as the Costa Rican red rump tarantula, is a large tarantula species found in Costa Rica and Panama. It is one of five species currently recognized in the genus Megaphobema. Key facts about M. mesomelas: Adult females can have a body length of up to 9 cm, with a leg span of up to 20 cm, making it one of the largest tarantula species in Central America. The coloration is typically a deep black, with a distinctive bright red or orange patch on the abdomen. M. mesomelas is a terrestrial species that inhabits tropical rainforests, often hiding in deep burrows or under debris on the forest floor. This species is known for its large size, its distinctive red abdominal patch, and its defensive behavior, which may include threat postures and biting when disturbed. The natural history and behavior of this species in the wild are relatively well-studied compared to many other tarantula species, but more research is still needed to fully understand its ecology and conservation status. The current conservation status of M. mesomelas is unknown, but it is likely that wild populations are threatened by habitat loss and degradation due to deforestation and land-use changes in Central America. Additionally, this species is popular in the pet trade, and overcollection of wild specimens may also pose a risk to some populations.