
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Dorcus alcides
A large flat stag beetle from Sumatra. Short-tooth and long-tooth forms each with different charm.
Dorcus alcides, the Alcides flat stag beetle, is a large stag beetle native to Sumatra, Indonesia, comparable in size to the Palawan stag beetle among Dorcus species. The species is notable for its pronounced mandible dimorphism: males occur in distinct short-tooth and long-tooth forms, each with its own distinctive appeal for collectors. Body coloration is a deep glossy black, with the broad, flattened body form characteristic of flat stag beetles. A large enclosure with both hardwood logs and fermented substrate accommodates both oviposition preferences—females lay eggs in either medium. Larvae develop well in fungal substrate bottles or fermented substrate. Adults live approximately 1–2 years. The dual appeal of targeting both mandible forms in selective breeding programs, combined with impressive maximum size, makes D. alcides a popular advanced species among Dorcus enthusiasts.
The Alcides Stag Beetle lives Adult 1-2 years.
The Alcides Stag Beetle grows to 40-100mm.
Adults reach 40–100 mm in body length.
Optimal captive temperature is 22–26°C.
Origin
Sumatra, Indonesia
Lifespan
Adult 1-2 years
Size
Captive record (♂)
98.3 mm
Wild record (♂)
104 mm
Record source: BE-KUWA 2025 Edition (captive-bred 98.3mm, Sato Yuichi, 2009 / wild 104.0mm)
Notable localities
A rare case where the wild record (104.0mm) exceeds the captive record (98.3mm). Captive 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
Sources: BE-KUWA Certified Breeding Records (Mushi-sha, FY2025 edition, JA)
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.
Accepted name: Dorcus alcides (Snellen van Vollenhoven, 1865)
Synonyms: Dorcus alcides, Eurytrachelus alcides Snellen van Vollenhoven, 1865
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.
Find listings for this species
40-100mm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Insect jelly
Keep in a large case with egg-laying logs and fermented substrate. Being broad and powerful, it also needs footholds to prevent tipping.
The ideal temperature is 22-26°C. Mist the substrate to keep it from drying out.
Feed adults beetle jelly. Adults live a relatively long 1-2 years, so feeding continues over a long period.
Females lay in both logs and substrate. Larvae can be raised in fungus bottles or fermented substrate, and you can aim for both short- and long-jawed forms.
Its pinching force is very strong, so keep fingers away from the mandibles when handling.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Alcides Stag Beetle is Adult 1-2 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Alcides Stag Beetle typically reaches 40-100mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Alcides Stag Beetle feeds on: Insect jelly. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Alcides Stag 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