Dynastes (Rhinoceros Beetles)

Dynastes (Rhinoceros Beetle)

 * Level: Beginner
 * Native Habitat: This a Genus of new world beetles can be found in temperate and tropical regions in both North and South America. Primarily of forest species but some species can also be found in a variety other habitats.
 * Common Names
 * Rhinoceros Beetles
 * Rhino Beetle
 * Hercules Beetle

Captive Habitat

 * Enclosure Type: Terrestrial/Fossorial For larva this species requires rotting hardwood (oak, beech etc,) to grow in. For adults the enclosure may be a simple as a medium sized deli-cup or small plastic tupperware tub modified with air holes, a specialized pet carrier (Kritter-Keeper) or an aquarium. These beetles are very strong and have been known to push lids off and doors open on enclosures. Be sure to adequately seal or latch them before leaving them unsupervised.
 * Substrate: Decaying hardwood substrate is required for larva and makes the best substrate for adults as well.
 * Conditions: Periodic dampening of the substrate is important, especially during the larval stages.
 * Humidity: 70-75%
 * Temp: 60-80*F (15- 26*C)

Husbandry

 * Temperament: Docile and easily to handle
 * Behavior: Adults are generally active at night, Dynastes are fairly slow moving while walking but are well known for taking unprecedented flights. Males will battle one another if placed together.
 * Size: Varies by species: Larva; 4.5 " (11 cm) 100 grams / Adults; 1.5-6 " (45-170cm)
 * Social: Yes; Males may be housed with several females. Two males should never be housed together as they will continuously fight one another.
 * Life Span: Varies by species some up to 2 years.
 * Feeding: Rotting fruit and vegetation, specialized beetle jellies are also available.

Species

 * Dynastes granti (Horn, 1870) – Western Hercules beetle or Grants' Hercules beetle (USA: Arizona)
 * Dynastes hercules (Linnaeus, 1758) – Hercules beetle (Central and South America)
 * Dynastes hyllus (Chevrolat, 1843) – (Mexico, Belize, El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua. Male: 35–70 mm; female : 30–45 mm)
 * Dynastes maya (Hardy, 2003) Maya white beetle[1] – (Mexico, Guatemala. Male: 50–90 mm; female: 40–50 mm)
 * Dynastes miyashitai (Yamaya, 2004) – (Mexico. Male: 50–90 mm; female : 40–50 mm)
 * Dynastes neptunus (Quensel in Schönherr, 1805) – Neptune beetle (South America: Colombia)
 * Dynastes satanas (Moser, 1909) – Satanas beetle (Bolivia. Male : 50–115 mm; female : 30–55 mm)
 * Dynastes tityus (Linnaeus, 1763) – Unicorn beetle or Eastern Hercules beetle (United States)