Doherty’s Flower Beetle Larva (Compsocephalus Dohertyi) Larvae
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Compsocephalus dohertyi Larvae Care Sheet
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Doherty’s Flower Beetle Larvae |
| Scientific Name | Compsocephalus dohertyi |
| Origin | Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia) |
| Larval Size | Up to 7–9 cm before pupation |
| Lifespan | Larval stage: 5–8 months; total lifespan 1–2 years |
| Activity | Burrowing, detritivorous |
Behavior
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Burrowing larvae; spends most of its time inside substrate feeding on decaying organic matter.
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Solitary; may become aggressive toward other larvae if space is limited.
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Requires dark, moist environment for healthy development.
Enclosure Requirements
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Container Size: Minimum 5–8 liters per larva; larger if rearing multiple individuals
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Substrate: 12–18 cm of decayed hardwood substrate, leaf litter, or coconut fiber mix
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Humidity: 70–80% (substrate moist but not waterlogged)
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Temperature:
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Optimal: 24–28°C
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Avoid temperatures below 20°C or above 30°C
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Decor: None required; larvae remain buried
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Ventilation: Moderate airflow to prevent mold while maintaining substrate moisture
Compatibility
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Best housed individually or with ample space; larvae may fight if overcrowded.
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Avoid housing with other beetle species or small invertebrates.
Diet
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Detritivore; feeds on decayed wood, leaf litter, and organic matter.
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Ensure substrate is nutrient-rich for optimal growth.
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Avoid adding fresh food that may rot too quickly.
Care Tips
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Maintain consistent substrate moisture; check weekly.
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Avoid direct sunlight; larvae are sensitive to temperature spikes.
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Remove moldy patches promptly.
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Ensure substrate depth allows full burrowing.
Breeding
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Larvae develop from eggs laid by adult beetles.
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Pupation occurs in a chamber within the substrate.
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Adult emergence takes 2–3 months after pupation depending on temperature and humidity.
Visual Quick Guide
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🏠 Enclosure: ≥5–8 L per larva, deep substrate
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🌡️ Temp: 24–28°C
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💧 Humidity: 70–80%
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🍴 Diet: Detritivore (decayed wood, leaf litter)
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🕒 Activity: Burrowing, nocturnal
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⚠️ Stress: Avoid overcrowding; maintain deep, moist substrate
