Embaphion muricatum (Pie-Dish Beetle)
Embaphion muricatum (Pie-Dish Beetle)
Enclosure
Adults and larvae can be housed together in various types of enclosures, such as a 32oz Tupperware container or a 10-gallon tank. Both require ample ventilation, as adults are highly sensitive to high humidity and stagnant air. The substrate should be sand, coconut fiber, or a mix of the two, preferably at least 2 inches deep. You can provide hides for the adults by using bark, leaves, egg cartons, etc.
Temperature & Humidity
Room temperatures between 20-26C are suitable for all life stages. Excessive warmth and humidity can harm the pupae. Don't let water drops touch pupae as this seems to kill them.
Most of the enclosure should remain dry, with one or two corners kept moist for oviposition and as a retreat for the larvae, which cannot tolerate completely dry conditions.
Diet
Both adults and larvae feed on fish-flakes/dog food as well as fruits and vegetables, with a preference for protein-rich foods. Rotten wood and dried leaves are also eaten by larvae.
Life Cycle
Adults can live 1-3 years if conditions are optimal but are sensitive to humidity and overcrowding. Females lay several dozen eggs shortly after maturing, with breaks between clutches. Eggs hatch in about 2-3 weeks.
Larvae take 3-4 months to mature and need moist substrate to pupate. You can isolate mature larvae in small, moist containers to form pupal cells. In large colonies, if seen at top of substrate, move pre-pupal larvae (curled up and immobile) to separate moist containers to avoid being eaten.
Larvae molt into pupae, which develop into soft adults in 2-3 weeks. Transfer new adults to dry, ventilated containers with minimal moisture and food. Handle gently to avoid deforming their soft bodies. Keep new adults isolated for 2-3 weeks until they harden, then reintroduce them to the main colony.
Enclosure
Adults and larvae can be housed together in various types of enclosures, such as a 32oz Tupperware container or a 10-gallon tank. Both require ample ventilation, as adults are highly sensitive to high humidity and stagnant air. The substrate should be sand, coconut fiber, or a mix of the two, preferably at least 2 inches deep. You can provide hides for the adults by using bark, leaves, egg cartons, etc.
Temperature & Humidity
Room temperatures between 20-26C are suitable for all life stages. Excessive warmth and humidity can harm the pupae. Don't let water drops touch pupae as this seems to kill them.
Most of the enclosure should remain dry, with one or two corners kept moist for oviposition and as a retreat for the larvae, which cannot tolerate completely dry conditions.
Diet
Both adults and larvae feed on fish-flakes/dog food as well as fruits and vegetables, with a preference for protein-rich foods. Rotten wood and dried leaves are also eaten by larvae.
Life Cycle
Adults can live 1-3 years if conditions are optimal but are sensitive to humidity and overcrowding. Females lay several dozen eggs shortly after maturing, with breaks between clutches. Eggs hatch in about 2-3 weeks.
Larvae take 3-4 months to mature and need moist substrate to pupate. You can isolate mature larvae in small, moist containers to form pupal cells. In large colonies, if seen at top of substrate, move pre-pupal larvae (curled up and immobile) to separate moist containers to avoid being eaten.
Larvae molt into pupae, which develop into soft adults in 2-3 weeks. Transfer new adults to dry, ventilated containers with minimal moisture and food. Handle gently to avoid deforming their soft bodies. Keep new adults isolated for 2-3 weeks until they harden, then reintroduce them to the main colony.