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Dorcus rubrofemoratus
A medium stag beetle with reddish legs and underside. Common in beech forests around 1,000 m; prefers slightly cool conditions but is fairly easy to keep.
The akaashi stag beetle (Dorcus rubrofemoratus) is a medium-sized lucanid distributed from Hokkaido to Kyushu, with males measuring 22-59 mm and females 25-39 mm. As its Japanese name ("red legs") suggests, the undersides of its legs and body are tinged reddish, making it easy to distinguish from all-black species. It mainly inhabits beech forests around 1,000 m elevation, though it occurs in the lowlands in Hokkaido. It prefers slightly cool conditions and keeps well when held below 25°C in summer; otherwise it is hardy, with larvae reared on fermented mat, fungal bottles or wood, and breeding is straightforward (producing large specimens is more advanced). Readily attracted to lights, it is a beautiful native species emblematic of the summer beech belt.
Origin
Japan (Hokkaido to Kyushu, incl. Tsushima and Sado)
Lifespan
Adult about 1 year (some overwinter)
Size
Male 22-59mm / Female 25-39mm
Temperature
18〜25℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Beetle jelly, tree sap
Ideally below 25°C in summer; somewhat heat-sensitive
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.
Plant Protection Act: 国産(在来)種のため、生体輸入に関わる外来生物法の種類名証明書は不要。
在来種だが、飼育・購入した個体を野外に放すことは避けること。産地ごとの地域性があり、他産地の個体を逃がすと野生個体群の遺伝的撹乱を招く。
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Reddish undersides of legs and body give it its name
Common in beech forests around 1,000 m (lowlands in Hokkaido)
Breeds on mat, fungal bottle or wood; large specimens are harder
Can be collected at lights in summer
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Akaashi Stag Beetle is 18〜25℃. Recommended humidity is 50〜70%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Akaashi Stag Beetle is Adult about 1 year (some overwinter). With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Akaashi Stag Beetle typically reaches Male 22-59mm / Female 25-39mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Akaashi Stag Beetle feeds on: Beetle jelly, tree sap. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Akaashi Stag Beetle varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 25, 2026