Care Guide: Bess Beetles (Odontotaenius disjunctus)

Care Guide: Bess Beetles (Odontotaenius disjunctus)

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Introduction: Bess Beetles, scientifically known as Odontotaenius disjunctus, are fascinating and unique insects that make captivating pets. With their striking appearance, intriguing behaviors, and role as decomposers, Bess Beetles have gained popularity among insect enthusiasts. This comprehensive care guide will provide you with detailed information on housing, food, breeding, and the natural habitat of Bess Beetles, helping you create a suitable environment for these fascinating creatures.

Habitat and Housing:

Enclosure: Bess Beetles require a spacious enclosure that allows for their natural behaviors. Opt for a glass or plastic terrarium with a secure lid to prevent escapes. For a small group of beetles, choose an enclosure size of at least 10 gallons (37 liters).

Substrate: Provide a substrate composed of organic materials, such as decaying wood, moist soil, and rotting leaves. Maintain a depth of 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) to allow for burrowing and tunneling.

Moisture and Humidity: Bess Beetles prefer a moderately humid environment. Regularly mist the enclosure with dechlorinated water to maintain humidity levels. The substrate should be kept slightly moist, but avoid creating a waterlogged environment.

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

Hiding Places: Provide various hiding spots, such as bark pieces, small logs, or hollow tubes. Bess Beetles appreciate dark and secure areas where they can retreat and feel safe.

Feeding and Diet:

Diet: Bess Beetles primarily feed on rotting wood. Offer decaying hardwood logs, such as oak or maple, as their main food source. Ensure the wood remains moist but not excessively wet.

Supplemental Food: You can supplement their diet with fruits and vegetables, including apples, bananas, carrots, and cucumbers. These items provide additional moisture and dietary variety.

Feeding Schedule: Place fresh food in the enclosure every few days, removing any uneaten portions promptly to prevent mold or bacterial growth. Monitor the condition of the wood, replacing it when it becomes overly decayed.

Breeding:

Group Dynamics: Bess Beetles are social insects and can be kept in small groups. Ensure the enclosure size is sufficient to accommodate the number of beetles comfortably.

Mating Behavior: Male Bess Beetles engage in "stridulation," producing sounds by rubbing body parts together to attract females. After successful mating, the female will lay eggs in the substrate.

Egg Laying: Provide a substrate of moist soil or decaying wood for the female to bury her eggs. The female will carefully place and cover the eggs within the substrate.

Incubation Period: Bess Beetle eggs typically have an incubation period of about 2-3 weeks. Maintain appropriate moisture levels in the substrate and ensure a suitable temperature range to support healthy development.

Larval Care: Once hatched, the larvae will feed on the decaying wood within the substrate. Allow the larvae to develop undisturbed through their molting stages until they reach adulthood.