Lucanus formosanus

Distribution:

Taiwan

Breeding hints:

Lucanus are a bit more difficult to breed than other Lucanidae. They in general need cooler temperatures and prefer a very decayed substrate. There seem to be species that live on white rotten wood, and can also be reared on kinshi. This is something that puzzled me, as I had thought that this would not work. I have since then tested it myself and it works well. I would also add that old kinshi flakes are a really good substrate for them. Most species can be reared on black soil and old flake soil. The smaller species of Lucanus often seem to be more hesitant to lay eggs, and it is not quite clear why. In general, if you can manage the temperatures, rearing Lucanus is definitely worth the effort.

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Specimen Pictures: