Terrarium hobbyists interested in acquiring a truly exotic pet as well as life science students will find virtually everything they need to know about keeping a tarantula in captivity. This book includes detailed information on the natural history and biology of these fascinating creatures, and the care chapter has been completely updated and revised. The book is filled with color photos and scientifically accurate line art, most of which examples are new to this second edition. Since its initial publication, hobbyists have come to consider this book the "Bible of Arachnoculture."

The mythical, mystical tarantula -- Will the real tarantula please stand up? -- The Scientific Tarantula. The physical tarantula ; The name of the tarantula ; Natural history. -- Tarantulas and Us. The useful tarantula ; The pet tarantula ; Care and maintenance ; Five paths to nirvana ; The well-bred tarantula ; Catching your own. -- Selected Species. Avicularia avicularia (L., 1758), the Pinktoe tarantula ; Aphonopelma spp.(Pocock, 1910), the North American brown tarantula ; Brachypelma smithi (Pick.-Cambr., 1897), the Mexican redknee tarantula ; Grammostola rosea (Walckenaer, 1837), the Chilean rose tarantula ; Poecilotheria regalis (Pocock, 1899), the Indian ornamental tarantula ; Theraphosa blondi (latreille, 1804), the Goliath birdeater tarantula.