Stag Beetles

Lucanidae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
Family: Lucanidae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Lucanidae: /luːˈkænɪdiː/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

ZooKeys - Apterocyclus palmatus by Paulsen M, Hawks D. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

ZooKeys - Apterocyclus waterhousei by Paulsen M, Hawks D. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.

A-review-of-the-primary-types-of-the-Hawaiian-stag-beetle-genus-Apterocyclus-Waterhouse-(Coleoptera-zookeys-433-077-g005 by Paulsen M, Hawks D. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Oo30682-6-Apterocyclus-munroi(adpropinquans) by M.J. Paulsen, David C. Hawks. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Dorcus brevis adult male by Happy1892. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Oo30681-4-Apterocyclus-honoluluensis(varians) by M.J. Paulsen, David C. Hawks. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Summary

Lucanidae, commonly known as stag beetles, are characterized by large, prominent mandibles in males. They inhabit various environments primarily consisting of wooded areas, where their larvae play a crucial role in wood decomposition. Their unique physical features and interesting behaviors have contributed to their fascination in various cultures.

Physical Characteristics

Medium to large beetles, typically brownish or black, with males often having large, distinctive mandibles resembling antlers.

Identification Tips

Males can be identified by their enlarged jaws; antennae resemble those of scarabs but are looser; body size ranges from 8 to 60 mm.

Habitat

Primarily woodland areas, with some species found in sand dunes and around driftwood along bodies of water.

Distribution

Approximately 38 species in 8 genera in North America; 1500 species worldwide in 109 genera.

Diet

Larvae mainly feed on decaying wood; adults may feed on tree sap and decaying fruits.

Life Cycle

Larvae go through three stages feeding on rotting wood and pupate inside a cell made of wood fragments and soil.

Reproduction

Males use their mandibles to fight for preferred mating sites.

Ecosystem Role

Larvae assist in decomposing wood and recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Economic Impact

Often kept as pets in South Korea and Japan.

Cultural Significance

Historically believed to be an omen of evil in England's New Forest, leading to their stoning; known as 'devil's imp'.

Health Concerns

Despite their fearsome appearance, stag beetles are not aggressive towards humans.

Evolution

The oldest known fossil dates back to the late Middle Jurassic period; members of the family have been present for millions of years with distinct evolutionary traits such as antler-like mandibles.

Misconceptions

While they have fearsome mandibles, stag beetles are not aggressive and primarily engage in combat with other males for mating rights.