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Dolichothele longimamma White Cottony Spots
eco White Cottony Spots

Dolichothele longimamma – White Cottony Spots

Why does your Dolichothele longimamma have white cottony spots? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.

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Jump to cause: Entomopathogenic Fungal Infection Molting Residue (Exuviae Fragments) Mites (Hypoaspis/Acarina infestation)

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Entomopathogenic Fungal Infection

Fungal spores (such as Beauveria bassiana) can manifest as white, cottony mycelium growing on the exoskeleton of the tarantula, often triggered by high humidity and poor ventilation.

Very Common
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How to confirm: Inspect if the white spots are physically attached to the cuticle and if there is a musty odor in the enclosure.
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1 Immediately isolate the tarantula from other inhabitants and reduce enclosure humidity by increasing ventilation.
2 Improve airflow within the enclosure to prevent further fungal spore germination and moisture buildup.
3 Ensure the substrate is not overly saturated; consider adding perlite to the substrate to enhance drainage and aeration.
Legigo Perlite 15qt
Legigo Perlite 15qt
14.2 L • Perlite
$22
In Stock
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Molting Residue (Exuviae Fragments)

During or after an ecdysis (molt), small fragments of the old exoskeleton can cling to the new cuticle, appearing as white, flaky, or cottony patches.

Very Common
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How to confirm: Check if the specimen has recently undergone a molt or if there are discarded pieces of skin in the substrate.
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1 Monitor the enclosure for any signs of actual pest activity, such as mites, to ensure the white spots are indeed just molting residue and not a fungal or pest issue.
2 Gently mist the enclosure with a fine mist to help loosen any remaining fragments of the old exoskeleton from the new cuticle.
Flora Premium Plant Mister
Flora Premium Plant Mister
Spray Bottles
$12
In Stock
3 Avoid physical contact or heavy cleaning of the tarantula itself, as the new exoskeleton is extremely soft and vulnerable to injury during this period.
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Mites (Hypoaspis/Acarina infestation)

While mites themselves are tiny, heavy infestations can create a visible white, dusty, or web-like appearance around joints and mouthparts.

Common
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How to confirm: Use a magnifying glass to see if the 'spots' are actually moving tiny specks.
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1 Isolate the enclosure immediately to prevent the spread of mites to other pets and clean the habitat thoroughly.
2 Remove any organic debris or excess substrate that may be harboring the mite population and replace it with fresh, clean medium.
Back to the Roots Organic Coir 51qt
Back to the Roots Organic Coir 51qt
48 L • Coconut Coir
$19
In Stock
3 Gently clean the tarantula's exoskeleton using a soft, damp cotton swab to remove visible white clusters without causing stress.
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