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Pachnoda marginata
Bright yellow and black flower beetle from Africa. Small, hardy, and easy to breed. Adults eat jelly and fruit. Larvae grow in leaf litter. Perfect entry-level beetle.
The sun beetle (Pachnoda marginata) is a vivid yellow-and-black flower beetle distributed across Africa. Small but hardy and easy to breed, it is widely kept as an introductory flower beetle. Adults feed on insect jelly and fruit, while larvae develop in leaf litter or fermented substrate. Husbandry uses a medium enclosure with space for adult activity and substrate for larval growth. Its rapid generational turnover lets keepers observe a breeding cycle in a short time. It also serves well as a stepping stone before keeping rhinoceros beetles, and its larvae are sometimes used as feeders. Low-maintenance, it is a beginner-friendly species.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Origin
Africa
Lifespan
Adult 3-6 months / Larva 4-6 months
Size
20-25mm
Temperature
22〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Jelly, banana (adult) / Leaf litter (larva)
Small plastic case sufficient. Group keeping OK
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Pachnoda marginata (Drury, 1773)
Synonyms: Scarabaeus marginatus Drury, 1773
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Plant Protection Act: コガネムシ上科(カブトムシ・クワガタムシ・ハナムグリ等)の生きた個体を輸入する際は、外来生物法に基づき輸出国政府機関等が発行する種類名証明書の添付が必要(輸入港は成田・中部・関西・福岡・鹿児島の各空港に限定)。本種自体は特定外来生物ではなく、証明書の添付により輸入可能。
Sources: 環境省 外来生物法「コガネムシ上科に含まれる生きた昆虫を輸入される方へ」 / CITES 附属書(checklist.cites.org)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Lay in leaf litter. Prolific and easy to breed
Diurnal and actively flies. Secure the lid
Strong fliers. Be careful when opening
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 Sun Beetle is 22〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Sun Beetle is Adult 3-6 months / Larva 4-6 months. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Sun Beetle typically reaches 20-25mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Sun Beetle feeds on: Jelly, banana (adult) / Leaf litter (larva). Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Sun Beetle varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026