Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle

Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

A few months as an adult

Size

Captive record 85.3mm, wild record 95.0mm

Diet

Adults take fermented sap of broadleaf trees and beetle jelly; larvae eat humus close to soil

Temperature & Humidity

Odontolabis adults and larvae alike tolerate cold poorly and are said to be unable to survive a winter on mainland Japan or further north. Do not let the substrate dry out.

Breeding & Egg-laying

This is described as one of the hardest species in the genus to keep, the difficulty being to obtain eggs. It is reported to lay sometimes into black-soil substrate, and red-rotted flake is worth trying as well. The larvae are reared on spent substrate mixed with the remains of mycelium or on nitrogen-rich rhinoceros-beetle substrate. The captive record stands at 85.3 mm.

Cohabitation

Male Odontolabis are for the most part short-tempered and combative, and a male will sometimes kill a female he does not take to. Several are never kept together and each beetle is housed alone. The larvae too hold their chamber in the humus as territory, attacking and sometimes eating intruders, so they are reared separately.

Lifespan & Rearing Period

For the genus, one to two years pass between hatching and pupation and the adults live a few months. Beetles that have been active for about a month and a half are said to start losing tarsi and antennal segments to necrosis at an increasing rate.

Health & Notes

The subspecies inomatai and mentawaiensis occur around Sumatra, so stock from different localities should not be mixed. Importing live Scarabaeoidea requires the species identification certificate. Odontolabis larvae compete strongly with other species, so releasing or abandoning the beetles outside their native range must be avoided absolutely.

About Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle

A large, glossy stag beetle native to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, known for its bold mandibles and demanding, advanced-level care.

7 things to know before welcoming a Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle

1. 1For Experienced Keepers

   Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle is considered very difficult to keep. It isn't recommended for first-time beetle keepers and is best suited to those with prior experience. Research the species thoroughly before bringing one home.

2. 2Short Adult Lifespan

   Adults typically live for only a few months. Since their time is limited, it helps to approach their care with the mindset of savoring each day of observation.

3. 3Large Size, Bold Mandibles

   Captive-bred specimens have reached 85.3mm, while wild individuals have been recorded at up to 95.0mm. Its large, powerful mandibles are one of the species' standout features.

4. 4Breeding in Black Soil

   There are reports of females laying eggs in black soil-based substrate. If you're aiming to breed this species, take care to prepare the substrate and laying environment properly.

5. 5Recreate Its Habitat

   Native to the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, this species benefits from temperature and humidity conditions similar to its natural range. Pay attention to ventilation and moisture inside the enclosure.

6. 6Subspecies Variation

   A distinct subspecies is known from around Sumatra. Even within the same species, body shape and coloring can vary depending on locality.

7. 7Prepare Before You Bring One Home

   Given the high difficulty level, it's wise to gather substrate, an enclosure, and other supplies in advance, and to understand temperature management before getting started. Take time to set up the environment properly first.

Frequently asked questions about Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle

Q.Is this beetle suitable for beginners?

A.Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle is considered very difficult to keep and isn't recommended for beginners. It's best to gain experience with an easier species first before attempting this one.

Q.How long do adults live?

A.Adult beetles typically live for only a few months. Rather than expecting a long-term companion, it's best to enjoy the limited time you have with them.

Q.How large does this species get?

A.Captive-bred specimens have reached 85.3mm, while wild individuals have been recorded at up to 95.0mm. Individual size varies, but it's known as a large species among shining stag beetles.

Q.Can this species be bred at home?

A.There are reports of eggs being laid in black soil-based substrate. However, since this species is difficult to keep, careful preparation of the breeding environment is needed if you want to attempt it.

Q.Are there any legal restrictions on this species?

A.This species is not subject to CITES. No special CITES-related procedures are required.

Useful tools for Castelnaud's Shining Stag Beetle care

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