Eleodes spinipes (Giant Texas Darkling Beetle)

Eleodes spinipes

(Giant Texas Darkling Beetle)

Eleodes spinipes ventricosa

*Under Construction*

Eleodes spinipes (the Giant Texas Darkling Beetle) There are two subspecies - Eleodes spinipes macrura and Eleodes spinipes ventricosa. They are visually differentiated by elytral striations, which are present on ventricosa, but absent on macrura.

Adult Size - Male (29 mm), Female (32 mm)

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

E.spinipes are massive, 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.spinipes seem to appreciate sandy substrates for oviposition. The substrate should be deep (6+ inches, depending on length and width of the enclosure) if larvae are being pupated communally.

Type - 50% sand & 50% coconut fiber mix

Moisture level - 

Communal pupation (main enclosure): Top 1/3 dry, bottom 2/3 moist

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

Isolated pupation (pupation cups): Lightly-moderately moist

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Food

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

Range - 70 F to 80 F