The Mexican Flame Knee Tarantula, Brachypelma auratum, is a visually striking species of New World terrestrial tarantula known for its vibrant black coloration accented by fiery red-orange markings on its patellae (knees). Its history is intertwined with the broader understanding and classification of the Brachypelma genus, particularly its close resemblance to the well-known Mexican Red Knee tarantula, Brachypelma hamorii (formerly often referred to as Brachypelma smithi).