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Chalcosoma chiron
Largest beetle in Southeast Asia. Three long horns and aggressive nature. More accessible than Hercules and popular.
Chalcosoma chiron, commonly called the Caucasus beetle or Atlas beetle, is the largest rhinoceros beetle in Asia, distributed across tropical rainforests of Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Males bear three prominent horns—one cephalic and two thoracic—and reach total lengths of 50–130 mm. The body displays a lustrous dark green to black coloration. This species is notably aggressive; males use their three horns with great skill in combat over mating rights. A medium to large enclosure with a fine-mesh lid and at least 15 cm of fermented substrate is recommended. Due to their aggressive temperament, mating should be supervised and kept brief. Adults eat beetle jelly and live approximately 3–6 months. Revered alongside the Hercules beetle as one of the world's strongest beetles, it is a trophy species for serious collectors.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Caucasus Beetle lives Adult 3-6 months, larva 1 year.
The Caucasus Beetle grows to Up to 130mm.
The ideal temperature for the Caucasus Beetle is 18〜25℃.
Captive temperatures must be kept between 18–25°C, as high heat above 28°C is detrimental.
Origin
Southeast Asia, including Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand
Captive record (♂)
129.4 mm
Record source: BE-KUWA 2025 Edition (Caucasus – Asian form, captive-bred 129.4mm, Fujii Seitetsu, 2025), total length = including horns
Notable localities
Regional subspecies
The largest Chalcosoma species. Bears 3 sharp horns. Size varies by locality (Thailand 129.4 / Malaysia 128.1 / nominate subspecies 119.6 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 chiron (Olivier, 1789)
Synonyms: Chalcosoma caucasus bidentata Endrödi, 1976, Chalcosoma caucasus crassicornis Endrödi, 1976, Chalcosoma caucasus edentata Endrödi, 1976, Chalcosoma caucasus inornata Endrödi, 1976, Chalcosoma caucasus janssensi Becker, 1937, Geotrupes caucasus Fabricius, 1801, Scarabaeus belangeri Guérin-Méneville, 1834, Scarabaeus chiron Olivier, 1789
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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Lifespan
Adult 3-6 months, larva 1 year
Size
Up to 130mm
Temperature
18〜25℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Beetle jelly (adult), fermented substrate (larva)
Keep in a medium to large case with a fly-proof filter lid and at least 15cm of fermented substrate.
18-25°C (very heat-sensitive)
Beetle jelly is the staple food. Adults live a relatively short 3-6 months, so keep jelly available at all times.
Because of its aggression, pair for a short time and always observe. Raise larvae in fermented substrate; the larval period is about one year.
Very aggressive, using its three horns skillfully in fights with other individuals. Do not house together; keep singly.
Horn grip very strong — pinching is painful
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Caucasus Beetle is 18〜25℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Caucasus Beetle is Adult 3-6 months, larva 1 year. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Caucasus Beetle typically reaches Up to 130mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Caucasus Beetle feeds on: Beetle jelly (adult), fermented substrate (larva). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Caucasus 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