Beetle substrate

[Stag Beetles]

How often should larvae and beetle substrate be changed?

 

[Bugboy3092]

I'd change it when it's almost eaten, but besides that probably once a month, depending on the species. What kind is it for?

 

[aspenentomology]

For stags and rhinos, I'd say whenever the food in it is all eaten or when it's mostly frass.

 

[Ratmosphere]

Look for a buildup of frass.

 

[Stag Beetles]

Ok, thanks, guys! But what about just for regular adult beetles? Specifically if the Eleodes sp.?

 

[aspenentomology]

I never change my substrate for them lol. I don't really see a reason to.

 

[Ratmosphere]

When you see a lot of black dots in your sphagnum moss it's time to change it. If you're just using beetle substrate for adults, maybe once every 5-6 months.

 

[Bugboy3092]

I don't really ever change mine since it's unlikely to effect adult health unless there's a huge buildup

 

[Stag Beetles]

? it will not decompose? In the wild I'm assuming it's not a problem because the beetles' feces will decompose, right?

 

[aspenentomology]

They have really small fecal pellets and desert enclosures are very dry so mold is unlikely. Of course if you didn't change it for a few years it might become an issue but with desert darklings it's usually not really a problem.

 

[Stag Beetles]

? Thanks!!?