Source: Wikimedia Commons
Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle
BeginnerAllomyrina dichotoma
A Japanese summer icon. Popular from kids to adults. Larvae grow in leaf compost, pupating into adults in about a month. Perfect starter beetle.
Difficulty
Beginner
Temperature
20〜28℃
Lifespan
Adult 2-3 months / Larva ~10 months
Size
30-80mm (including horn)
Humidity
60〜80%
Diet
Jelly (adult) / Leaf compost & fermented mat (larva)
About
The Japanese rhinoceros beetle (Allomyrina dichotoma), known in Japan as kabutomushi, is one of the most iconic beetle species in East Asia. Found throughout Japan, China, the Korean Peninsula, Vietnam, Myanmar, Thailand, and Taiwan, it inhabits broad-leaved forests with temperate to subtropical climates. Males are distinguished by a prominent cephalic horn used in combat with rival males over territory and mating rights. Adults measure 30–80 mm in length and display a glossy dark-brown coloration. They are nocturnal, congregating at tree sap flows of oak and chestnut trees. In captivity, they require a mid-sized enclosure with at least 15 cm of fermented substrate, temperatures of 20–28°C, and humidity of 60–80%. Females lay 20–30 eggs in fermented substrate, and larvae develop over approximately one year. Their impressive horns, manageable care requirements, and cultural status as Japan's "king of insects" make them the most popular pet beetle in the country.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Basic Info
Origin
continental Asia, including Japan, China, the Korean Peninsula, and Southeast Asia
Lifespan
Adult 2-3 months / Larva ~10 months
Size
30-80mm (including horn)
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Diet
Jelly (adult) / Leaf compost & fermented mat (larva)
Care Guide
Enclosure
Medium plastic case. Substrate depth 15cm+
Breeding
Lay in fermented mat. ~20-30 eggs per female
Larva Care
Change substrate every 2-3 months. Use nutrient-rich mat for larger adults
Notes
Males fight. Add bark pieces to prevent flipping
Beginner-friendlyDomesticSummer classicEasy breeding
Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle?
A
Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle?
A
The ideal temperature for Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle is 20〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle?
A
Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle Q&A
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