Lucanus elaphus Fabricius, female

[JKim]

I found a female L. elaphus on my recent collection trip. I've collected L. placidus in this same location in past couple times, as well as some dynastine scarabs like Strategus aloeus and Phileurus valgus.

[The Mantis Menagerie]

How can you identify the females of large, US stag beetle species? I have not seen a good guide that explains the differences. 

[JKim]

45 minutes ago, The Mantis Menagerie said:

How can you identify the females of large, US stag beetle species? I have not seen a good guide that explains the differences. 

@The Mantis Menagerie Simply put...

1. Lucanus elaphus is reddish-brown colored, and has triangular clypeus.
2. L. capreolus is reddish-brown colored, and has yellow marks on legs (ventrally).
3. L. placidus is very similar to L. capreolus in general morphology with dark brown to black color.
4. L. mazama has a lot of punctures on all over the body, with dark brown to black color.

I will upload pictures of all four species later on.

[The Mantis Menagerie]

5 hours ago, JKim said:

@The Mantis Menagerie Simply put...

1. Lucanus elaphus is reddish-brown colored, and has triangular clypeus.
2. L. capreolus is reddish-brown colored, and has yellow marks on legs (ventrally).
3. L. placidus is very similar to L. capreolus in general morphology with dark brown to black color.
4. L. mazama has a lot of punctures on all over the body, with dark brown to black color.

I will upload pictures of all four species later on.

Thank you! I can now be certain in my identifications.