The world's most beautiful stag beetle from Australia. Iridescent metallic rainbow body is its defining trait. Docile and easy to keep. Larvae thrive on both fungus bottles and substrate.
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The Rainbow Stag Beetle (Phalacrognathus muelleri) is native to the tropical rainforests of Queensland, Australia, and Papua New Guinea, and is celebrated worldwide as one of the most visually spectacular beetles in existence. Its body surface shimmers in an ever-changing array of green, red, gold, and blue depending on the angle of light, giving it a jewel-like brilliance that few insects can match. Adult males typically measure 40–65mm and possess relatively modest mandibles, making them easy to handle. Combined with a calm temperament, this has earned the species devoted fans ranging from complete beginners to experienced breeders. Larvae accept both fungal substrate bottles and fermented mat, lowering the barrier to entry considerably. In Japan, the species became widely available from the late 1990s onward, and captive multi-generational breeding is now well established. The pursuit of color variants and large-size lineages adds a deeper layer of challenge and enjoyment that keeps hobbyists engaged for years.
1Ideal Temp: 20–26°C
Rainbow Stag Beetles are sensitive to high temperatures and should be kept below 28°C, especially in summer. Use air conditioning or cooling fans to regulate temperature, and place the enclosure away from direct sunlight. In winter, keeping temperatures above 15°C will allow them to remain active.
2Adults Live 1–2 Years
With proper care, adult Rainbow Stag Beetles can live 1 to 2 years, which is relatively long among stag beetle species. After eclosion, it may take several months before they begin feeding, so patience is key. Breeding pairs should only be introduced after the female has started eating.
3Larvae Thrive in Mat or Mycelium
Larvae can be raised in either mushroom substrate bottles (using Pleurotus or Trametes species) or fermented wood mat, giving keepers flexibility. Mushroom substrate promotes faster growth and potentially larger adults, though it comes at a higher cost. Beginners may find fermented mat a more budget-friendly starting point.
4Gentle with Weak Mandibles
Rainbow Stag Beetles have a gentle temperament and relatively weak mandibles compared to other stag beetles, making them well-suited for handling. However, they may drop legs if startled, so handle them close to a surface until you are familiar with their movements. Avoid housing multiple males together, as fighting can occur.
5Egg-Laying Needs Preparation
Successful egg-laying requires firmly packing fermented mat into the lower half of the enclosure. Unlike some other species, Rainbow Stag Beetles lay eggs directly in mat rather than in wood. Allowing the female to feed fully before breeding attempts significantly improves success rates.
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Care difficulty, lifespan, size and diet — all basics covered.
6Feed Adults Insect Jelly
Adults are primarily fed commercially available insect jelly, with high-protein or high-sugar varieties often used to encourage egg production. Fruits such as banana or apple are also suitable, though they soil the enclosure more quickly and require careful management. Replace food every 2 to 3 days to maintain hygiene.
7Wide Color Variation Between Individuals
Individuals vary widely in color, displaying shades of green, red, blue, and purple — even offspring from the same parents can show diverse hues. The iridescent effect also changes depending on lighting angle and humidity, which adds to their visual appeal. Many enthusiasts enjoy selective breeding to emphasize specific color traits, making this a highly collectible species.
