Hypsibius

Definitely rhino beetles, particularly species such as Allomyrina dichotoma, Xylotrupes gideon and Dynastes tityus. I also have a fondness for stag beetles, though I haven't been fortunate enough to ever keep any species of them.

Hehe, thank you. It's part of a series of paintings I've done on pages from that book about how the western world regards insects.

Ah, ok then. Thank you for the advice.

Ooh, I had a feeling this was what they were doing! Do you guys know how long it takes them to lay their eggs? Also, would it be safe to take the eggs out of the substrate before the larvae hatch? Just wondering, because I know that insects tend to lay eggs in large quantities and if they do succeed at laying eggs then I intend to give most of them to one of my local breeders.

Great stuff you guys! I happen to draw and paint myself, I've done some pieces involving beetles before. Here's one of my paintings.

I've been caring for a trio of Pachnoda marginita adults (two females, one male) and I've noticed that both of the females are spending a lot of time burrowing into the substrate. Is this normal or is it indicative of anything in particular?

Aye, I'm envious that people over there have access to shops where they can buy substrate and beetles. I loved seeing how enthusiastic about their insect pets people were in the documentary, particularly the children playing with their beetles. If I ever visit Japan, I'd love to visit some of their beetle shops and forests, haha.

Have you guys watched Beetle Queen Conquers Tokyo? If you haven't, it's a documentary about the fascination with insects in Japanese culture. As someone interested in eastern culture and how insects are viewed by humans, I thought it was an amazing documentary that was incredibly fascinating. Give it a watch if you haven't already. Here's the trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWBoYIXg7uk

Ooh, as someone who loves games with insects, I'll have to check this one out. On the subject of games with beetles, have you guys ever played the Digimon games? Because there are some pretty kicking beetle monsters in them, like Kuwagamon:

Thought I'd post here rather than make a new thread-I'm still considering a mantis but I'm just wondering if there are any other invertebrates that you guys would recommend for beginners? I've heard cockroaches are easy to care for, I've apparently heard some millipedes aren't too difficult either (though I am a little skeptical of that) I'm just wondering if there are any others you guys know would be good.

Ah, yes, I heard about this. What fascinating animals beetles are!

Ah, I see. Well, I'd be willing to put up with that, as I think mantids are beautiful insects. At the moment I'm considering a number of different arthropods to keep. If I do get a mantis, I think it will probably be a Congo Green mantis, as I've heard they can be hardy. Thanks for the help guys.

Ah, I see. I know they aren't venomous, but with your experience of their bites, do they hurt much? Also, I'll check that forum. Thank you both.

I'm thinking of getting a mantis at some point this summer. I'd just like to know if any of you guys know any species that are particularly good for beginners? I've heard Sphodromantis aurea and Hierodula membranacea are good species. Do you guys have any experience with them?

Ah, I thought so. I'll definitely leave them be now. Thank you very much.