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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)
The Sun Beetle lives Adult 3-6 months / Larva 4-6 months.
The Sun Beetle grows to 20-25mm.
The ideal temperature for the Sun Beetle is 22〜28℃.
Origin
Africa
Lifespan
Adult 3-6 months / Larva 4-6 months
Size
20-25mm
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: Pachnoda marginata (Drury, 1773)
Synonyms: Scarabaeus marginatus Drury, 1773
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
22〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Jelly, banana (adult) / Leaf litter (larva)
Small plastic case sufficient. Group keeping OK
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℃. 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 bloodline, size, captive-bred generation, and sex. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 24, 2026