Insect Encyclopedia — 75 Species Directory
Encyclopedia of popular beetles and stag beetles with care guides, traits, and breeding methods.
Featured Insect
Showing 2 of 75 species
Kokuwa Stag Beetle
Dorcus rectus
The most common small stag beetle in Japan's woodlands. Hardy, overwinters as an adult and lives for years — an ideal beginner species.
NativeBeginner-friendlyOverwinters
Suji Stag Beetle
Dorcus striatipennis
A small stag beetle with longitudinal grooves on the elytra. Resembles the kokuwa but small males and females show clear striations. A hardy, common species from lowlands to high mountains.
NativeStriated elytraBeginner-friendly
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Insect FAQ
- How much do beetles cost?
- Japanese rhinoceros beetles cost 300-1,000 yen, giant stag beetles 2,000-30,000 yen, and Hercules beetles 5,000-50,000+ yen depending on species and size.
- Can beginners start keeping insects?
- Japanese rhinoceros beetles and saw stag beetles are easy to keep and great for beginners. A basic container and beetle jelly from a 100-yen shop is all you need to start.
- How long do beetles live?
- Adult rhinoceros beetles live 2-3 months, saw stag beetles 3-6 months. Giant stag beetles can live 2-5 years as adults, offering years of enjoyment.
- What are the benefits of raising larvae?
- Larvae are cheaper than adults and you get to experience the thrill of eclosion. Raising large specimens using fungus bottles or substrate is rewarding and educational.
- What should I check when buying insects?
- Check that tarsi (feet) are intact, the insect is active, and there are no mites. Choose specimens with documented size and lineage information.