Care Guide: Alaus oculatus (Eyed Click Beetle)

Care Guide: Alaus oculatus (Eyed Click Beetle)

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Introduction: Alaus oculatus, commonly known as the Eyed Click Beetle, is a fascinating and unique insect species. With its distinct appearance and interesting behaviors, the Eyed Click Beetle can make an intriguing pet for insect enthusiasts. This in-depth care guide will provide you with comprehensive information on housing, food, breeding, and the specific needs of Alaus oculatus.

Habitat and Housing:

Enclosure: Provide a spacious enclosure for your Eyed Click Beetle. A glass or plastic terrarium with a secure lid is suitable. The size of the enclosure should be large enough to accommodate the beetle comfortably and allow for natural behaviors.

Substrate: Use a substrate that mimics the beetle's natural environment. A mixture of organic material such as peat moss, coco fiber, and leaf litter works well. The substrate should be deep enough to allow burrowing.

Moisture and Humidity: Maintain moderate humidity levels by misting the enclosure with dechlorinated water. The substrate should be slightly moist but not waterlogged. Provide a water dish for drinking.

Temperature: Eyed Click Beetles thrive at room temperature, around 70-80°F (21-27°C). Avoid exposing them to extreme temperature fluctuations.

Hiding Places: Provide hiding spots such as pieces of bark or cork bark. These hiding places offer security and stimulation for your Eyed Click Beetle.

Feeding and Diet:

Diet: Eyed Click Beetles are nocturnal predators. They primarily feed on other insects, especially grubs, larvae, and soft-bodied prey. Offer a variety of live prey such as mealworms, waxworms, and small crickets.

Feeding Schedule: Place live prey in the enclosure a few times per week. Remove any uneaten prey to prevent injury to your beetle and maintain cleanliness.

Breeding:

Mating Behavior: Male Eyed Click Beetles use clicking sounds to attract females for mating. After successful mating, the female will lay eggs.

Egg Laying: Provide a substrate of moist soil or peat moss for the female to lay her eggs. The female will bury the eggs in the substrate. Ensure the substrate remains slightly moist during this period.

Larval Care: Eyed Click Beetle larvae are carnivorous and have specific care requirements. It is essential to separate the larvae to prevent cannibalism. Transfer each larva to an individual container with a suitable substrate, such as a mixture of peat moss and decayed wood.

Larval Diet: Eyed Click Beetle larvae feed on a variety of small invertebrates, including insects, grubs, and soft-bodied prey. Offer appropriate prey such as mealworms, waxworms, and small crickets. Ensure the prey is smaller than the size of the larva's head to prevent choking.

Larval Growth: Eyed Click Beetle larvae go through several instars, shedding their exoskeletons as they grow. Provide additional substrate and suitable prey as the larvae increase in size.