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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. Readily attracted to lights, it is a beautiful native species emblematic of the summer beech belt.
The Akaashi Stag Beetle lives Adult about 1 year (some overwinter).
The Akaashi Stag Beetle grows to Male 22-59mm / Female 25-39mm.
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).
Origin
Japan (Hokkaido to Kyushu, incl. Tsushima and Sado)
Lifespan
Adult about 1 year (some overwinter)
Size
Male 22-59mm / Female 25-39mm
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.
Plant Protection Act: As a native (indigenous) species, the species identification certificate under the Invasive Species Act is not required for live imports.
Although a native species, releasing captive-bred or purchased individuals into the wild should be avoided. It shows regional variation by locality, and releasing individuals from other localities causes genetic disturbance to the wild population.
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
18〜25℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Beetle jelly, tree sap
Ideally below 25°C in summer; somewhat heat-sensitive
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 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 bloodline, size, captive-bred generation, and sex. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 25, 2026