Elephant Stag Beetle - Lucanus elaphus

This species is admired for its impressive size and dramatic sexual dimorphism. Larvae are creamy white, C-shaped grubs that develop slowly within decaying hardwood, while adults are dark reddish-brown. Males are especially striking, bearing elongated, antler-like mandibles used in ritualized combat with rivals, whereas females are smaller, more robust, and equipped with shorter, functional jaws. In the wild, adults are closely associated with mature oak forests, where larvae develop in well-rotted logs and stumps, sometimes for several years. In captivity, successful rearing depends on providing high-quality fermented hardwood substrate and maintaining stable moisture levels.