Metallic Stag Beetle - Beetle

Metallic Stag Beetle Cyclommatus metallifer

I. Basic Information

1. ClassificationColeoptera → Lucanidae → Cyclommatus
2. Native DistributionDistributed only in Sulawesi and nearby small islands in Indonesia It is a beetle endemic to the area and has no natural populations in the wild in China

II. Appearance (Significant sexual dimorphism)

Male

• Iconic slender, sickle-shaped mandibles In large individuals, the mandibles are longer than the body The inner side of the mandibles has small tooth-like projections used by males to fight for mates
• Size range: Body length 28-93mm
• Elytra have a strong metallic sheen with many color variations: Metallic gold, bronze red, violet, metallic blue-green, etc Subspecies from different origins have different colorations

Female

• No elongated mandibles, small head, ordinary appearance
• Small body size, only 20-30mm
• Also has metallic elytra

III. Habits

1. Larva Inhabit fermented decaying broadleaf wood and humic sawdust, feeding on microorganisms in decaying wood and woody organic matter The development cycle is long, they are sensitive to temperature, and cannot tolerate high temperatures
2. Adult

• Diet: In the wild, they feed on tree sap and overripe decaying fruit In captivity, they can be fed beetle jelly and fruit
• Temperature preference: Prefers cool environments, sustained high temperatures significantly shorten lifespan
• Adult lifespan: Generally 3-10 months in artificial environments

IV. Rearing and Legal Reminders

1. Domestic Protection: This insect is not a native species of China and is not listed in the national protected animal catalog
2. Cross-border Regulations: Live beetles, pupae, or specimens imported/exported from abroad must go through customs and entry-exit animal and plant quarantine Illegally mailing or carrying live organisms into the country is a violation and carries risks of confiscation and penalties
3. Minor Feature: Although the mandibles look intimidating, their biting force is weak and they generally will not injure people