Eleodes obscura (Obscure Darkling Beetle)

Eleodes obscura

(Obscure Darkling Beetle)

Eleodes obscura sulcipennis

This hulking darkling beetle may be the heaviest tenebrionid in the United States. There are multiple subspecies with varying elytral textures. Although they are usually plain black, some individuals sport faint red coloration. Communal pupation is not recommended for Eleodes obscura since older larvae develop cannibalistic tendencies. Darkling Beetles are great for handling in general, but this species may be the absolute best! Specimens go still when picked up and proceed to leisurely walk around once they feel comfortable. 🙂

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

Climbing Ability - None

Flying Ability - None

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Enclosure

E.obscura are massive, so their enclosure should have some space.

Ventilation level - 

Isolated pupation (main enclosure): High

Isolated pupation (pupation cups): Moderate

Hides - Necessary

Barrier/Secure Lid - Not necessary

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Substrate

E.obscura seem to appreciate sandy substrates for oviposition. Larvae prefer low moisture during pupation and likely require a clay mix to keep their pupal chambers from collapsing.

Type -

Isolated pupation (main enclosure): 50% sand & 50% coconut fiber mix

Isolated pupation (pupation cups): Clay mix

Moisture level - 

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

Isolated pupation (pupation cups): Light

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Food

E.obscura 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.obscura can be kept into the low 70s, but grows and breeds fastest at warmer temperatures. Larvae from northern localities require a winter diapause in the mid 60s for successful pupation.

Range - 65 F to 80 F