Beetle & Stag Beetle Keeping for Beginners

Temperature Management

Ideal temperatures vary by species:

• Domestic (rhinoceros beetle, giant stag beetle): 20--28°C. Room temperature management is possible
• Foreign rhinoceros beetles (Hercules, etc.): 20--25°C. Many species are heat-sensitive
• Foreign stag beetles (rainbow, etc.): 18--25°C. Some species require cooler management

Above 30°C in summer dramatically increases mortality risk. AC rooms or temperature-controlled cabinets provide peace of mind. For winter, overwintering species like the giant stag beetle need thick substrate and a cool location around 15°C.

Identifying Males and Females

Rhinoceros Beetles - **Male**: Horn on head. Larger and heavier body - **Female**: No horn. Rounder body with shorter front tarsi

Stag Beetles - **Male**: Well-developed mandibles. Larger body - **Female**: Small mandibles. Some species identifiable by front tarsal shape

At larval stage, third-instar larvae can be sexed by checking for ovary presence at the abdominal tip (females of many species show a cream-colored dot on the ventral side).

Tips for Longevity

1. House individually -- Cohabitation causes fighting stress and shortens lifespan
2. Maintain optimal temperature -- Avoid sudden temperature changes
3. Keep clean -- Regular substrate and jelly changes prevent mites and mold
4. Minimize handling -- Handling stress is surprisingly significant. Enjoy through observation
5. Provide quality food -- Supplement with high-protein jelly and banana

Giant stag beetles can live 3--5 years as adults with proper care. Domestic rhinoceros beetles have a short adult lifespan of 2--3 months, but careful management maximizes that time.

Benefits of Buying on BreederDirect

On BreederDirect, you can purchase directly from beetle and stag beetle breeders.

• Clear lineage and origin: Verify generation (CBF1, CBF2, etc.) and collection locality directly with breeders
• Select healthy specimens: Get vigorous, well-managed individuals
• Expert care advice: Beginners can get specific tips on feeding and temperature management
• No middleman markup: Direct transactions at fair prices