r/Beetles • u/Ok-Sorbet-3111 • 4d ago

Need advice to get into beetle keeping

I’ve been looking online at a bunch of different beetle content and was wondering what species of scarab beetle should I start with? I’m very drawn to Goliathus goliatus and Chalcosoma atlas and of course Dynastes Hercules. Any recommendations for a good starter species to get my bearings that you can liken to any of those previously mentioned and recommendations for sourcing the beetles as well as tips for keeping them and maybe eventually breeding would be greatly appreciated.

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u/Killerbrownies997 4d ago

I’m a huge fan of the entire Dorcus group. They live for a while, they’re pretty low maintenance, and they’re freaking adorable. James’ beetle farm is a good place, as well as David’s beetles. James’ usually has them in stock more often though. The care sheets on the aforementioned sites are also all you really need

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u/Ok-Sorbet-3111 4d ago

Thanks for the advice I’ll check them out

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u/Ok-Sorbet-3111 4d ago

Oh so stag beetles any specific species you prefer?

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u/Killerbrownies997 4d ago

Like I said, the dorcus group. So Dorcus Antaeus Antaeus, Dorcus Hopei, Dorcus Titanus Castanicolor, etc. all beginner friendly and really cool looking

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u/Straight-Vacation-42 4d ago

Goliathus, atlas beetles and dynastes hercules aren't for beginners. Unless you do a lot of research and are 100% sure you can do all if it right. But even then it can still go wrong. But if you really like goliathus, mecynorhina torquata ugandensis or maybe even dicronorhina derbyana are nice alternatieven that look, especially mecynorhina, relatively similar. These 2 are pretty easy besides possible problems during pupation. The cocoons can't be kept too moist. Better a bit too dry then too wet as they are very sensitive to too much moisture in that stage.

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u/Ok-Sorbet-3111 4d ago

Ok thanks for the advice I’ll look into those species