Eleodes acuticauda (Acute-Tailed Darkling Beetle)

Eleodes acuticauda

(Acute-Tailed Darkling Beetle)

Adult Size - Male (28 mm), Female (30 mm)

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

E.acuticauda are large, so their enclosure should have some space. Height should be factored into the equation if larvae are being pupated communally.

Ventilation level -

Communal pupation (main enclosure): Very high

Isolated pupation (main enclosure): High

Isolated pupation (pupation cups): Moderate

Hides - Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Not necessary

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Substrate

E.acuticauda appreciate a sandy substrate for oviposition. It should be deep if larvae are being pupated communally. They prefer low substrate moisture during pupation and likely require a clay mix to keep their pupal chambers from collapsing.

Type - Not picky

Moisture level - 

Communal pupation (during larval growth): Top 1/3 dry, bottom 2/3 moderately moist

Communal pupation (during pupation): Top 1/3 dry, bottom 2/3 slightly moist

Isolated pupation (main enclosure): 2/3 dry, 1/3 moist

Isolated pupation (pupation cups): Low

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Food

E.acuticauda aren't picky about their food and can be fed an average darkling beetle diet.

Type - Proteinaceous pet foods, fruits, vegetables

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Temperature

E.acuticauda can be kept into the low 70s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures.

Range - 70 F to 80 F