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Dorcus grandis formosanus
A close relative of Japanese giant stag from China/Taiwan. Can grow large, targeting over 80mm.
Dorcus hopei hopei is the nominate subspecies of the giant stag beetle complex, native to China and Taiwan. It closely resembles the Japanese giant stag beetle (D. h. The body is a deep glossy black with thick, powerful mandibles. Husbandry is virtually identical to that of the Japanese giant stag: medium enclosure with ventilated lid, hardwood egg-laying logs, and fungal substrate bottles for larval rearing to maximize size. Adults are fed beetle jelly. h. hopei a highly popular species for enthusiasts targeting large specimens.
The Hopei Stag Beetle lives Adult 1-3 years.
Recommended temperature is 20–26°C, and adults enjoy a lifespan of 1–3 years—unusually long for stag beetles. The combination of familiar care requirements, long adult lifespan, and the potential to produce 80 mm-plus specimens makes D.
The Hopei Stag Beetle grows to 40-85mm.
binodulosus) in body form and coloration, with adults reaching 40–85 mm in body length; exceptional specimens can exceed 80 mm.
Origin
China and Taiwan
Lifespan
Adult 1-3 years
Size
40-85mm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Captive record (♂)
84.3 mm
Wild record (♂)
78.3 mm
Record source: BE-KUWA 2025 edition (grandis Taiwan Large - captive 84.3 mm Mieda Takatoshi 2012 / wild 78.3 mm)
Notable localities
Taiwan large stag beetle (Dorcus grandis formosanus, Taiwan subspecies of grandis). Captive breeding records are updated annually through BE-KUWA (Mushi-sha) competitions. Individual value varies significantly depending on locality, generation (CBF/WF/WD), and size.
Generation codes
Sources: BE-KUWA Certified Breeding Records (Mushi-sha, FY2025 edition, JA)
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: Dorcus grandis formosanus Didier, 1926
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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Humidity
60〜80%
Insect jelly
Care is almost identical to the Japanese giant stag beetle
It does best at 20-26°C. Though from China and Taiwan, it can be kept in the same temperature band as the Japanese Dorcus.
Feed adults beetle jelly. Larvae are normally raised in kinshi bottles, which lets you aim for large individuals.
Use sawtooth oak or konara oak breeding logs for egg laying. Large individuals can exceed 80 mm, so fatten larvae in kinshi bottles.
Adults live a very long 1-3 years. They can be kept for years with overwintering, so maintain temperature through winter too.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The average lifespan of Hopei Stag Beetle is Adult 1-3 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Hopei Stag Beetle typically reaches 40-85mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Hopei Stag Beetle feeds on: Insect jelly. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Hopei 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