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Chalcosoma atlas
Large beetle from Southeast Asia. Three horns similar to Caucasus but smaller. Relatively easy to keep.
Chalcosoma atlas, the Atlas beetle, is a large rhinoceros beetle found in the lowland tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, including the Philippines and Indonesia. Males bear three horns—one cephalic and two thoracic—similar to the Caucasus beetle but with slightly more slender thoracic horns, reaching a total length of 50–120 mm. The species name references the Greek mythological titan Atlas. Body coloration is a glossy dark green to black. A medium to large enclosure with deep fermented substrate is appropriate. Females lay eggs directly in the substrate; the larval period lasts approximately 8–12 months. Adults are fed beetle jelly or banana. Its impressive three-horned form combined with manageable husbandry makes the Atlas beetle an excellent entry point into exotic beetle keeping. The difference from the Caucasus beetle is a common question—the Atlas has a slightly thinner, more upward-pointing thoracic horn and a somewhat smaller body, while the Caucasus has thicker, longer horns and is more aggressive. The Atlas is a bit easier to keep and is a popular entry species for first-time keepers of imported beetles. Prices run about 5,000-15,000 yen per pair.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Atlas Beetle lives Adult 3-6 months, larva 8-12 months.
Adults live 3-6 months after emergence and the larval stage lasts 8-12 months, for a total lifespan of about a year from egg. That is typical for imported rhinoceros beetles, and the key to longevity is avoiding heat: above 28°C adults wear out and die sooner, so keeping them at a cool 22-26°C in summer extends their life.
The Atlas Beetle grows to Up to 100mm.
The ideal temperature for the Atlas Beetle is 22〜28℃.
Optimal captive temperature ranges from 22–28°C, and the species is considered one of the more accessible exotic rhinoceros beetles for beginners.
Captive record (♂)
110.1 mm
Record source: BE-KUWA 2025 edition (Atlas Mindanao - captive-bred 110.1 mm, Hideyuki Kobayashi 2019, total length including horns)
Notable localities
Regional subspecies
Asian rhinoceros beetle with 3 thoracic and head horns. Size varies by locality (Mindanao 110.1 / nominate subspecies 100.4 mm). Records are total length including horns. Captive-breeding records are updated annually in the BE-KUWA (Mushi-sha) contest. Individual value varies significantly by locality, generation (CBF/WF/WD), and size.
Generation codes
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Accepted name: Chalcosoma atlas (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Scarabaeus atlas Linnaeus, 1758
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Plant Protection Act: When importing live specimens of Scarabaeoidea (including rhinoceros beetles, stag beetles, flower beetles, etc.), a species identification certificate issued by the exporting country government agency or equivalent must be attached in accordance with the Invasive Species Act (import ports are limited to Narita, Chubu, Kansai, Fukuoka, and Kagoshima airports). This species itself is not a designated invasive species, and import is possible upon submission of the certificate.
Sources: Ministry of the Environment, Invasive Species Act: "Guidance for Those Importing Live Insects in Scarabaeoidea" / CITES Appendix (checklist.cites.org)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Origin
Southeast Asia
Lifespan
Adult 3-6 months, larva 8-12 months
Size
Up to 100mm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Beetle jelly (adult), fermented substrate (larva)
Keep in a medium to large case with a deep layer of fermented substrate. Feed adults beetle jelly or banana.
22-28°C is suitable. Above 28°C adults wear out faster, so keep them at a cool 22-26°C in summer.
Females lay eggs in the fermented substrate. Larvae grow in fermented substrate, with a larval period of about 8-12 months.
Among the easier exotic beetles to keep
Often confused with Caucasus — distinguish by horn shape
The Atlas has a thinner, more upward thoracic horn and smaller body; the Caucasus has thicker, longer horns and is more aggressive. The Atlas is the easier to keep.
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
The ideal temperature for Atlas Beetle is 22〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Atlas Beetle is Adult 3-6 months, larva 8-12 months. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Atlas Beetle typically reaches Up to 100mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Atlas Beetle feeds on: Beetle jelly (adult), fermented substrate (larva). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Atlas Beetle varies significantly depending on bloodline, size, captive-bred generation, and sex. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: August 31, 2026