Ceratogyrus marshalli, commonly known as the Straight Horned Baboon Tarantula, is a fascinating species native to southern Africa. One of its most distinctive features is its appearance, characterized by prominent horn-like projections on the cephalothorax (head and thorax region) of the spider, giving it a unique and somewhat intimidating appearance. These horns are thought to play a role in defense against predators or possibly in intraspecific competition during mating rituals. Beyond their striking physical characteristics, Straight Horned Baboon Tarantulas are known for their burrowing behavior. They create intricate underground retreats using their strong, spade-like pedipalps to excavate tunnels in sandy or loamy soil. These burrows not only provide shelter but also serve as a place to ambush passing prey, which typically includes insects and other small invertebrates found in their arid habitat.

In terms of temperament, Ceratogyrus marshalli is known for its defensive behavior when threatened. Like many baboon tarantulas, it may display threat postures or even flick urticating hairs from its abdomen as a defense mechanism. Despite their formidable appearance, they are also known to be relatively hardy and adaptable in captivity, making them a popular choice among tarantula enthusiasts. Their natural habitat in southern Africa, characterized by dry savannahs and grasslands, presents challenges such as seasonal variations in temperature and humidity, which they have adapted to over millennia. Overall, Ceratogyrus marshalli stands out not only for its physical adaptations and defensive behaviors but also for its role as an example of evolutionary specialization within the diverse world of tarantulas.