Differences between Damon species?

[The Mantis Menagerie]

I have seen Damon diadema, D. medius, and D. variegatus for sale. Which species reaches the largest adult size in terms of both body size and leg span?

 

[pannaking22]

I believe medius is the largest. I be hesitant of any D. variegatus since those look so similar to diadema.

 

[schmiggle]

I be hesitant of any D. variegatus since those look so similar to diadema.

And because almost no one ever actually has them.

 

[The Mantis Menagerie]

How can one differentiate D. medius and D. diadema?

 

[pannaking22]

Specimen in hand is best, but if you look at photos you'll see that D. medius is much more grey.

 

[aphono]

How can one differentiate D. medius and D. diadema?

The easiest difference to note is the pattern on their legs. diadema have three bands going all the way across the legs. medius usually have two or one more like large spots rather than bands.

A very high percentage of large juvenile or adult specimens on the market are D. medius despite what the label says. Available D. diadema usually are sold as little babies by private individuals rather than at pet stores. Impossible to find available large juvenile or adult diademas. Conversely, it is hard to find baby medius, but they are starting to show up as captive bred stock from WC parents. Broad but decent guide right now, basically. Bought a large "Tanzanian tailless whip spider"? Better to assume it's a medius anyways.

 

[The Mantis Menagerie]

Thank you for the quick responses. Based on what I read above, I am guessing adult female is D. medius, correct?

 

[pannaking22]

Correct, that looks like D. medius.

 

[Inverts4life1]

Here's a pic of my Damon medius in all its cuteness with the two bands on the legs clearly visible....Amblypygi really are awesome