Somehow, a splash of colour can make a terrifying tarantula a little bit more likeable. Just take a look at the Caribena Versicolor, one of the most coveted tarantulas in the tarantula-collecting hobby.

Every big spider enthusiast wants one of these - not solely because of their vibrant colours, but because of their docile nature. A member of the Avicularia genus, the Caribena Versicolor starts developing the bright turquoise colour as a spiderling. As they grow up, their carapace turns to a vivid emerald green, their fuzzy legs go purple and their abdomen becomes bright red.

Spider experts think their colouring might serve as a method of communication between potential mates, as well as camouflaging them within the tropical foliage of their Caribbean habitat.