Compsocephalus dohertyi Larvae Care Sheet

Quick Facts

Attribute	Details
Common Name	Doherty’s Flower Beetle Larvae
Scientific Name	Compsocephalus dohertyi
Origin	Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia)
Larval Size	Up to 7–9 cm before pupation
Lifespan	Larval stage: 5–8 months; total lifespan 1–2 years
Activity	Burrowing, detritivorous

Behavior

• Burrowing larvae; spends most of its time inside substrate feeding on decaying organic matter.

• Solitary; may become aggressive toward other larvae if space is limited.

• Requires dark, moist environment for healthy development.

Enclosure Requirements

• Container Size: Minimum 5–8 liters per larva; larger if rearing multiple individuals

• Substrate: 12–18 cm of decayed hardwood substrate, leaf litter, or coconut fiber mix

• Humidity: 70–80% (substrate moist but not waterlogged)

• Temperature:

  • Optimal: 24–28°C

  • Avoid temperatures below 20°C or above 30°C

• Decor: None required; larvae remain buried

• Ventilation: Moderate airflow to prevent mold while maintaining substrate moisture

Compatibility

• Best housed individually or with ample space; larvae may fight if overcrowded.

• Avoid housing with other beetle species or small invertebrates.

Diet

• Detritivore; feeds on decayed wood, leaf litter, and organic matter.

• Ensure substrate is nutrient-rich for optimal growth.

• Avoid adding fresh food that may rot too quickly.

Care Tips

• Maintain consistent substrate moisture; check weekly.

• Avoid direct sunlight; larvae are sensitive to temperature spikes.

• Remove moldy patches promptly.

• Ensure substrate depth allows full burrowing.

Breeding

• Larvae develop from eggs laid by adult beetles.

• Pupation occurs in a chamber within the substrate.

• Adult emergence takes 2–3 months after pupation depending on temperature and humidity.

Visual Quick Guide

• 🏠 Enclosure: ≥5–8 L per larva, deep substrate

• 🌡️ Temp: 24–28°C

• 💧 Humidity: 70–80%

• 🍴 Diet: Detritivore (decayed wood, leaf litter)

• 🕒 Activity: Burrowing, nocturnal

• ⚠️ Stress: Avoid overcrowding; maintain deep, moist substrate