The common name "blonde tarantula" refers to the carapace, which is densely covered in pale hairs, and contrasts strongly with the all-dark legs and abdomen.
[2] This 3 to 5 in (8 to 13 cm) large bodied, burrowing spider is commonly seen during the summer rainy season in southwestern deserts.
[4] The function of sialic acids is diverse, including contributing significantly to protein folding, neural development, and metabolism.
Research studies have demonstrated that the receptor potentials of the tarantula photoreceptors in response to light flashes was characterized by smooth depolarizations.
[8] Each stage of molting corresponds to shedding of a different portion of their exoskeleton ranging from the dorsum to the abdomen and ultimately the legs.
[9] Male A. chalcodes develop palpal bulbs, intended to store sperm and insert it into the female's genital opening.
Females possess abdominal pouches (spermatheca) that are utilized in order to store sperm until reproduction occurs through the laying of eggs.
When reproduction occurs, females lay eggs in the male's sperm in order to provide nutrients for the offspring.
The significantly higher life expectancy for females in comparison to males can be attributed to differences in development and reproductive organs.
Potential reasons explaining the breaking of the silk covering include the spider's circadian rhythm, decreased environmental light intensity, and surface temperatures.
[12] Although A. chalcodes is particularly active at night, it is not strictly nocturnal because they are seen in the upper portion of the burrow early in the day.
[8] In general, spider venoms contain several classifications of neurotoxins that are relevant to the development of insecticides and other pharmaceutical preventative measures.
Analysis of these neurotoxins within the venom revealed the presence of spermine, a polyamine involved in cellular metabolism, and 1,3-diaminopropane.
These toxins have not been investigated significantly, however are theorized to function in short term paralysis or immobilization of the tarantulas' prey.