Hercules Lichyi

Dynastes hercules lichyi is consistently the most widely available and popular Hercules beetle subspecies in the global hobby. Native to the highlands of Colombia and Ecuador, males reach 80–170 mm in total length—second only to the nominate Guadeloupe subspecies in maximum size. The thoracic horn is characteristically long and straight, which many enthusiasts consider the most aesthetically pleasing horn form of any Hercules subspecies. Elytra coloration shifts between yellowish-green and black with humidity changes. Optimal captive temperature is 20–25°C; heat above 28°C is avoided. An extra-large enclosure with at least 20 cm of fermented substrate is required. Egg-laying occurs in the substrate; larvae develop over 12–24 months. Adults eat beetle jelly or banana and live 6–12 months. More accessible in price and availability than the nominate subspecies while still capable of producing 150 mm-plus specimens, D. h. lichyi is the definitive entry point for serious Hercules beetle breeding.

Insect jelly