
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Odontolabis dalmani
A large shiny stag beetle with metallic sheen. Attractive beautiful form with curved mandibles.
Odontolabis dalmani is a large stag beetle distributed across Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Sumatra. Males possess distinctively curved mandibles characteristic of the Odontolabis genus, giving them an elegant sculptural form. The species inhabits tropical rainforests, living in and around decaying hardwood. Both rearing and egg-laying can be accomplished in fermented substrate, making it a relatively manageable species. Larvae also develop well in fungal substrate bottles. Adults live approximately 6–12 months and eat beetle jelly. The combination of a glossy black body, gracefully curved mandibles, and relative accessibility in the hobby make O. dalmani a popular choice among exotic stag beetle enthusiasts.
The Dalmani Stag Beetle lives Adult 6-12 months.
The Dalmani Stag Beetle grows to 50-90mm.
Adults reach 50–90 mm in body length, displaying a glossy black to dark body with attractive metallic highlights.
Captive temperature of 20–25°C is appropriate.
Origin
Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Sumatra
Lifespan
Adult 6-12 months
Size
50-90mm
Captive record (♂)
106.2 mm
Wild record (♂)
107 mm
Record source: BE-KUWA 2025 edition (Dalhman intermedia - Captive 106.2mm Zhao-xiong Cheng 2024 / Wild 107.0mm)
Notable localities
Regional subspecies
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
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: Odontolabis dalmani (Hope, 1845)
Synonyms: Lucanus dalmani Hope, 1845
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.
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Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Insect jelly
Heat-sensitive, summer temperature control important
It does best at 20-25°C. Though from rainforest, avoid extreme heat and keep the substrate just moist enough not to dry out.
It can be kept and bred in fermented substrate alone, without a breeding log. Add footing so it can right itself if flipped.
Feed adults beetle jelly. Larvae can be raised in fermented substrate or kinshi bottles.
It lays in fermented substrate and breeds relatively easily. Adults live a longish 6-12 months, so there is leeway in timing the pairing.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Dalmani Stag Beetle is Adult 6-12 months. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Dalmani Stag Beetle typically reaches 50-90mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Dalmani Stag Beetle feeds on: Insect jelly. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Dalmani 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