What colours can Tarantulas see?

[kaolincash]

Evening folks,

I'm working on a setup with a desk-lamp nearby that has a flat section in front of the bulb which could accommodate gels. I intend to set up a diffusion filter and some colour gels on it, to simulate times of day etc., ultimately I'd like to hook it up to a motor so that it rotates naturally throughout the day, but for now I'm happy to play around with it manually.

While looking for some suitable gels, it occurred to me that spiders may not be able to see the same colours as we can, and that I could take advantage of this by having a coloured light that *I* can see, but *THEY* can't - so they'll consider it night, and thus be more active, so I can have a sit down and watch them go about their business.

If anyone has any knowledge on this matter, it'd be greatly appreciated, as I'd like to be able to observe my Ts while they're active during times I don't have to sleep, myself, so I can keep an eye out for odd behaviour that may require my attention.

Thanks for reading this, and I look forward to getting your feedback!

Kaolin x

 

[The Seraph]

I know that most arthropods cannot see red lights and I do think it applies to tarantulas. I am sure somebody else knows more then me though.

 

[Ungoliant]

While looking for some suitable gels, it occurred to me that spiders may not be able to see the same colours as we can, and that I could take advantage of this by having a coloured light that *I* can see, but *THEY* can't - so they'll consider it night, and thus be more active, so I can have a sit down and watch them go about their business.

Source: Biology of Spiders

Most spider eyes seem to be insensitive to red light, as are most insect eyes. A spectral sensitivity between 330 and 700 nm was found in the jumping spider Maevia. However, the sensitivity was much reduced around 700 nm (i.e., in the red part of the spectrum).

For previous discussions on tarantula vision, see:

• The magic of the light spectrum
• How Do We Know Tarantulas Have Bad Eyesight?

 

[kaolincash]

So it seems my initial hypothesis was correct, then? That I can get a light and watch my T without disturbing him?
I'll look into getting a red gel for my light, then.
Maybe I'll be able to double the room as a I darkroom for film photography! (kidding—I have a DSLR ;D)

Thanks for the input, folks. If anybody has anything else to add, I'll be keeping an eye on this thread indefinitely.