Hercules Beetle Nominate

Dynastes hercules hercules, the nominate subspecies of the Hercules beetle, is native to the Lesser Antilles islands of Guadeloupe, Dominica, and adjacent islands in the Caribbean. Among all 17 recognized Hercules beetle subspecies, the nominate is the largest, with males reaching a maximum total length of 180 mm—making it the longest beetle species on Earth. The thoracic horn is notably long and straight, and elytra color shifts from yellowish-green to black with humidity. Captive temperature must be maintained at 20–25°C; temperatures above 28°C are harmful. An extra-large enclosure with fermented substrate at least 20 cm deep is required. Females lay 30–50 eggs per clutch; larvae take 12–24 months to develop. Adults eat beetle jelly or banana and live 6–12 months. Due to its restricted island range, limited availability, and status as the largest and most prestigious Hercules subspecies, D. h. hercules commands the highest prices in the hobby and represents the ultimate achievement for Hercules beetle breeders.

Insect jelly