Prosopocoilus savagei “Savagei antler beetle”

Carapace, sheen and antlers: The fascinating Prosopocoilus savagei

Prosopocoilus savageiknown as the Savagei antler beetle, is one of the most beautiful and fascinating antler beetles kept in terrariums. This species originates from Central Africa, particularly from regions of Cameroon and Gabon, where it lives in humid forests. The most striking feature of the males are their long mandibles – huge “antlers” that they use for defense and imposing behavior. Females are smaller and stockier, but just as handsome.

The colors of the savagei antler beetle range from glossy black-brown to reddish tones, often with a metallic sheen. Its stately appearance, coupled with its peaceful nature, makes it a popular display insect – not only for collectors, but also for nature lovers who enjoy observing exotic animals.

A well-ventilated terrarium with a minimum size of 30 × 30 × 30 cm is recommended for keeping them. The substrate should consist of a loose, burrowable substrate – a mixture of leaf humus, flake soil and white rotten wood is ideal. Since P. savagei As the larva spends a large part of its development underground, a deep soil substrate is particularly important for breeding. Adult beetles, however, only require a shallow substrate depth and sufficient climbing surfaces, such as pieces of bark and cork branches.

The animals prefer a temperature between 22 and 26 °C and a relative humidity of 70-80 %. A bowl of Beetle Jelly or overripe fruit such as banana or mango will reliably cover their food requirements. The beetles are mainly active at dusk and at night – but with a bit of luck you may also see them feeding or climbing during the day.

Prosopocoilus savagei “Savagei antler beetle” can be easily bred under good conditions. The females like to lay their eggs in rotten wood or heavily decomposed leaf humus. After pupation, impressive beetles hatch, which can delight you with their presence for several months.

The development time of Prosopocoilus savagei Depending on the temperature and food supply, the larvae develop over a period of around 6 to 10 months. After laying their eggs, the larvae develop over several stages in the nutrient-rich substrate, preferably in flake soil or fermented leaves. This phase can last several months before the larvae pupate and go into pupal dormancy. After hatching, the finished beetles harden in their self-built chamber for a few weeks before they become active. A constant temperature of around 24-26 °C and a good supply of organic material in the substrate can noticeably accelerate development.

Thanks to its robust nature, easy keeping and fascinating appearance, this species is also suitable for committed beginners who want to gain their first experience with beetles. Care is uncomplicated – anyone who enjoys observation and design will quickly take this antlered beetle to their heart.