Catothelinae

Catothelinae is a subfamily of spiders belonging to the family Theraphosidae, commonly known as tarantulas. This subfamily was first described by Eugène Simon in 1892. Species within Catothelinae are generally characterized by their burrowing habits and their often drab coloration, which provides camouflage in their natural habitats.

The distribution of Catothelinae is primarily found in the Neotropical region, with various species inhabiting South and Central America. They are typically found in terrestrial environments, constructing burrows in the ground, often in leaf litter, under rocks, or among tree roots. These burrows serve as protection from predators and environmental conditions, as well as a place to ambush prey.

While specific dietary habits can vary between species, most Catothelinae spiders are opportunistic predators. Their diet consists mainly of insects, other arthropods, and occasionally small vertebrates that wander near their burrows. Like other tarantulas, they subdue their prey with venom injected through their fangs.

Reproduction in Catothelinae follows the general pattern of theraphosids. Males will seek out females, and mating can be a dangerous affair for the male, with females sometimes cannibalizing them. After mating, the female will produce an egg sac, which she guards until the spiderlings hatch. The spiderlings then disperse to find their own territories. Some species in this subfamily are known for their urticating hairs, which they can flick off their abdomen as a defense mechanism.