Tarantulas and Toads?

[minax]

I have read something very interesting, in various T books, about some Aphonopelmas being found in their burrow, with toads! In this case, it was the Microhylidae, a very small, shy, ant eating toad, very rarely seen. I have even heard of farmers finding them, and calling the toads," Tarantula Toads"! In the past I talked to the head reptile curator here at the Tulsa zoo, about this subject. He is very experianced, especially with herps, and he believed there is a symbiotic relationship of sorts, going on here. I have also heard of this in some species in South America. Does anyone have any theories as to what they think is going on here? I have my theories, but wanted to hear other's opinions!

 

[chuck]

if these toads feed on small bugs such as ants, maybe they act as the tarantula's "house keeper". they remove any unwanted pests from the burrows.

 

[Steve Nunn]

Originally posted by chuck
if these toads feed on small bugs such as ants, maybe they act as the tarantula's "house keeper". they remove any unwanted pests from the burrows.

You're correct. The toads feed on smaller insects (such as ants) which could destroy a good egg sac, or cause major problems during a molt. Same symbiotic relationships have been noted with Xenesthis, Megaphobema, Pamphobeteus and Theraphosa spp, wih various species of frog/toad. I wouldn't be surprised if it's been noted with Brachypelma too.

Cheers,
Steve

 

[chuck]

from readings on Ts we're told never to feed our Ts any frogs or toads b/c some secrete toxins, would any of these toads be toxic? b/c if they were itd be an uncomfortable tunnel