Xyloryctes jamaicensis larvae : help with care + substrate

[Kuwagata_1]

hello everyone !

after two years of searching for X. jamaicensis in Quebec ( it is said to be extirpated ) , I discovered a nice sized larvae above ground on a sandy trail in a forest just 45 minutes west of Montreal. 

I am 100 % sure that is is X. jamaicensis and will probably concentrate on finding adults next season at the same location. 

meanwhile i would love to raise this larvae to maturity but i have read it is quite a challenge. 

also, i am not sure why but the larvae has been very lethargic, remaining curled up firmly above the substrate. 

right now it is on sand, which was where it was found, but I know it needs a better substrate. I thought about mixing some sand with the maple  flake soil i am using for osmoderma, but am not sure if that is alright considering it is said to feed on ash roots or rotten leaves. 

I was thinking of going out and getting some rotten ash wood to mix with the sand tomorrow, but wanted to see if anyone has some insight on this situation and could advise me. 

Its amazing to know this species is still in Quebec, let alone so close to big metropolis like Montreal. 

Thanks 

 

[Dynastes]

Xyloryctes are standard to rear, they do well on a mix of compost, shredded decaying leaves, and rotten wood. Since your specimen was found above ground it may have something wrong with it.