The cottonweed stag beetle is a member of the stag beetle family, widespread in the United States. One of the prominent features that make these beetles easily identifiable is their large mandibles.
Size: 20-36 mm
Color: They are black.
Other Characteristic Features: The males have more prominent mandibles than females using them to attract their mate.
These larvae go through three instars, turning yellow before molting each time. Their soft head capsules are white.
Once fully mature, the larva proceeds to the pupation phase.
Females lay 10-14 eggs at a time.
| Lifespan | 2-3 years |
| Distribution | Western and Southeastern US |
| Habitat | Wetlands |
| Seasons active | Summer; late June – August |
| Host plants | Cottonweed plants |
| Diet of adults | Fruits like bananas and mangoes |
These beetles cause no known damage.
Image Source: live.staticflickr.com, content.eol.org, bugguide.net, i.ebayimg.com, i.pinimg.com
The cottonweed stag beetle is a member of the stag beetle family, widespread in the United States. One of the prominent features that make these beetles easily identifiable is their large mandibles.
Size: 20-36 mm
Color: They are black.
Other Characteristic Features: The males have more prominent mandibles than females using them to attract their mate.
These larvae go through three instars, turning yellow before molting each time. Their soft head capsules are white.
Once fully mature, the larva proceeds to the pupation phase.
Females lay 10-14 eggs at a time.
| Lifespan | 2-3 years |
| Distribution | Western and Southeastern US |
| Habitat | Wetlands |
| Seasons active | Summer; late June – August |
| Host plants | Cottonweed plants |
| Diet of adults | Fruits like bananas and mangoes |
These beetles cause no known damage.
Image Source: live.staticflickr.com, content.eol.org, bugguide.net, i.ebayimg.com, i.pinimg.com
