Eupatorus gracilicornis Male Large Tropical Insect Coleopter Scarab Rhinoceros Beetle Scarabaeidae Dynastinae

Description

Sex : M

Origin : Thailand (Chiang Mai)

Eupatorus gracilicornis Male Large cm 7-8 Tropical Insect Coleopter Scarab Rhinoceros Beetle Scarabaeidae Dynastinae.
Common name: Yellow Five-Horned Rhinoceros Beetle.

Eupatorus gracilicornis (Arrow, 1908) is a large beetle belonging to the Scarabaeidae family, Dynastinae subfamily.
The adult is undoubtedly very showy, as it can exceed the average length of 5 cm, reaching up to 8 cm in the largest males. These have four small-medium sized prothoracic horns and a showy cephalic horn, while the females do not have them, giving this species a notable sexual dimorphism. The elytra are a pleasant caramel/light hazelnut color and cover the membranous wings suitable for flight. The belly of the insect is shiny black and hairless in both males and females. The adults emerge from August to October and are of purely nocturnal habits, consequently they are easily attracted by artificial lights.
The larvae of Eupatorus gracilicornis are white with a reddish head and legs, with the typical "C" shape. The larval stage undergoes 3 moults and lasts about two and a half years, during which the larvae feed on decomposing organic plant matter. After the larval stage the insect transforms into a pupa, a phase in which it takes on some of the main characteristics of the adult.
Eupatorus gracillicornis is widespread in Asia, particularly in India and southwestern China. During the day it is easily found in bamboo groves, while it rests clinging to the stems of the plants.
In Thailand, children use it as a pet, tying it to a string to keep it with them when it tries to fly away.