Breeding and Care Guide for Dung Beetles (Scarabaeus and Copris) | Enjoying the Fascinating Ecology of Scarab Beetles
A guide to breeding and raising dung beetles (scarabs) such as Scarabaeus sacer and Copris species. From dung ball formation to adult care and larval management—we clearly explain how to raise these insects with their unique ecology.
Key Takeaways
A guide to breeding and raising dung beetles (scarabs) such as Scarabaeus sacer and Copris species. From dung ball formation to adult care and larval management—we clearly explain how to raise these insects with their unique ecology.
Related Species
What are Dung Beetles and Scarab Beetles?
Dung beetles, including Scarabaeus sacer, are collectively called insects belonging to the family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Scarabaeinae (order Coleoptera). They are famous for being revered as sacred scarabs (beetles) in ancient Egypt.
Dung beetles have a unique ecology in which they use feces from mammals, birds, reptiles and other animals as food and breeding sites. The behavior of dung beetles such as Scarabaeus sacer rolling feces into balls is particularly well-known, but Copris species that inhabit Japan are also members of the "ball-making beetles" that create larval chambers (dung balls) within feces.
Species commonly available for captive breeding include the Japanese Copris cornutus (Japanese horned dung beetle) and Asian Copris orientalis. These are fascinating species that allow observation of the unique parental care behavior of adult beetles (nurturing behavior) and provide an opportunity to experience the wonderful ecology of insects.
Equipment Needed for Breeding
Breeding Cage
Since Copris species dig burrows in the ground to live, a deep breeding cage is necessary.
- Size: At least 30cm wide × 20cm deep × 30cm tall
- Material: Plastic reptile cages or deep-type insect containers
- Lid: Breathable mesh lid (to prevent escape)
Substrate (for Egg-Laying and Larval Development)
Since Copris larvae develop inside feces, use substrate containing fresh dung.
Ideal substrate preparation: 1. Mix leaf mold (or fermentation substrate) and dried dung from herbivorous animals (cattle, horses, goats) in a 4:1 ratio 2. Lightly mist with water to moisten (until it clumps when squeezed) 3. Fill to a depth of 15-20cm or more
Alternatives: You can substitute by mixing commercially available 'fermentation substrate for rhinoceros beetles' with dried dung from herbivorous animals available at pet shops (rabbit and chinchilla droppings are easiest to obtain).
