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Dorcus striatipennis
A small stag beetle with longitudinal grooves on the elytra. Resembles the kokuwa but small males and females show clear striations. A hardy, common species from lowlands to high mountains.
The suji stag beetle (Dorcus striatipennis) is a small lucanid found from Hokkaido to Kyushu, with males 13.5-40 mm and females 14-24 mm. Its epithet striatipennis means "grooved wings," and true to the name, fine longitudinal grooves run along the elytra — though these are clear only in small males and all females, fading in large males. It closely resembles the kokuwa stag beetle but is smaller, and ranges from lowlands to high mountains, being especially common at higher elevations. Adults gather at oak sap from May to September and are found on willow twig tips at altitude.
The Suji Stag Beetle lives Adult 1-2 years (overwinters).
Hardy and overwintering as an adult, it lives 1-2 years in captivity and breeds readily on wood or fermented mat, making it a beloved beginner species alongside the kokuwa.
The Suji Stag Beetle grows to Male 13.5-40mm / Female 14-24mm.
The ideal temperature for the Suji Stag Beetle is 18〜28℃.
Origin
Japan (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu)
Lifespan
Adult 1-2 years (overwinters)
Size
Male 13.5-40mm / Female 14-24mm
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. Releasing individuals from other localities or subspecies causes hybridization and genetic disturbance with the local wild population.
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Temperature
18〜28℃
Humidity
50〜70%
Beetle jelly, tree sap
Hardy at 18-28°C; no special care needed
Striated elytra (the epithet striatipennis means "grooved wings")
Like kokuwa but small males and females show clear grooves (faint in large males)
Breeds easily on wood or fermented mat
May-Sep; at altitude also on willow twig tips
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 Suji Stag Beetle is 18〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Suji Stag Beetle is Adult 1-2 years (overwinters). With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Suji Stag Beetle typically reaches Male 13.5-40mm / Female 14-24mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Suji Stag Beetle feeds on: Beetle jelly, tree sap. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Suji 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