In Love With Stag Beetles: Introduction to These Insects (Cheng Ming-Lun, PhD, Biology Department)
Children are fond of stag beetles, which are relatives of scarab beetles. There are around 1,300 known species worldwide. Their appearance can be unusual with some smaller than a mung bean and some larger than 10 centimeters. The mandibles of the male are often very large, but can sometimes be very small. Most mandibles are curved downward, but some are curved upward. The powerful mandibles are an important weapon for males, used to fight other males. In terms of classification, appearance and behavior, there is much and very interesting variation. They are like the Pokemon of the natural world. They are sometimes kept as pets or collected by adults. In this online database file, we explore the mysteries and stories of the stag beetle. Interested readers can read relevant articles from past newsletters of this museum.
