King Stag Beetle
Phalacrognathus muelleri
The king stag beetle, also called the rainbow stag beetle, is a colorful forest beetle from northeastern Australia and New Guinea. Adults can reflect green, gold, bronze and reddish tones. Adult males have enlarged upward-curving jaws; females have smaller jaws. Its larvae develop in moist, decaying wood associated with white-rot fungi.
Captive females lay eggs in suitable rotten hardwood, and the young need wood-rich food throughout development. Adults accept beetle jelly and soft fruit. Secure housing needs climbing material, shelter and ventilation.
Colors: Wild Type
