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Atlas beetle
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. Optimal captive temperature ranges from 22–28°C, and the species is considered one of the more accessible exotic rhinoceros beetles for beginners. A medium to large enclosure with deep fermented substrate is appropriate. Females lay eggs directly in the substrate; the larval period lasts approximately 6–10 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. Adults live 3-6 months after emergence and the larval stage lasts 6-10 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 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)
Origin
Southeast Asia
Lifespan
Adult 3-6 months, larva 8-12 months
Size
Up to 100mm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Captive record (♂)
110.1 mm
Record source: BE-KUWA 2025年度版(アトラス・ミンダナオ 飼育110.1mm 小林秀行 2019、全長=角込み)
Notable localities
Regional subspecies
3本の胸角・頭角を持つアジア産オオカブト。産地で大きさが異なる(ミンダナオ110.1 / 原名亜種100.4mm)。記録は角を含む全長。飼育レコードは BE-KUWA(むし社)のコンテストで毎年更新される。産地・累代(CBF/WF/WD)・サイズで個体価値が大きく変動する。
Generation codes
Sources:
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Atlas beetle (Linnaeus, 1758)
Synonyms: Scarabaeus atlas Linnaeus, 1758
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Plant Protection Act: コガネムシ上科(カブトムシ・クワガタムシ・ハナムグリ等)の生きた個体を輸入する際は、外来生物法に基づき輸出国政府機関等が発行する種類名証明書の添付が必要(輸入港は成田・中部・関西・福岡・鹿児島の各空港に限定)。本種自体は特定外来生物ではなく、証明書の添付により輸入可能。
Sources: 環境省 外来生物法「コガネムシ上科に含まれる生きた昆虫を輸入される方へ」 / CITES 附属書(checklist.cites.org)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
Find listings for this species
Humidity
60〜80%
Beetle jelly (adult), fermented substrate (larva)
22-28°C
Among the easier exotic beetles to keep
Fermented substrate OK. Fast growing
Relatively affordable and available
Often confused with Caucasus — distinguish by horn shape
Adults 3-6 months, larvae 6-10 months—about a year total. Above 28°C adults wear out fast, so keeping them at 22-26°C in summer extends life.
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 20〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. 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 morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026