{"title":"Beetles \u0026 Larvae - The heavy stuff","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNeed a fix? \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou've come to the right place!\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eWe've got flower beetles and larvae in a range of varieties and stages, from tiny starters to fully grown adults. Whether you're adding something new to your collection, looking for a striking display species, or just fancy something a little different, we've got something for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStraight from the underground. \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"coelorrhina-hornimani-flower-beetle-adult-unsexed","title":"Coelorrhina hornimani \"Flower Beetle\" Adult (Male\/Female Pair)","description":"\u003cp\u003eCoelorrhina hornimani \"Flower Beetle\" is a captivating metallic emerald-green beetle from central Africa, prized for its striking iridescent exoskeleton and impressive size of approximately 30mm. Males feature a distinctive Y-shaped horn used in territorial displays, while females possess a characteristic flat, spade-like head structure.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese beetles are relatively straightforward to care for, feeding readily on ripe fruit, beetle jellies, and soft vegetables. Larvae develop successfully on decayed oak leaf mulch and wood flake substrates. With a complete life cycle of 8 to 12 months and adult lifespans of 3 to 5 months, they offer an engaging experience for both novice and experienced beetle keepers.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaptive-bred adults and larvae are available, making this an ideal species for anyone seeking a visually stunning and manageable addition to their collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(One Pair)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCAPTIVE BRED, IN-HOUSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Local Bug Dealer","offers":[{"title":"1","offer_id":58574440071542,"sku":null,"price":15.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"coelirrhina-hornimani-african-flower-beetle-larvae","title":"Coelirrhina hornimani \"African flower beetle\"  larvae L1\/L2","description":"\u003cp\u003eCoelirrhina hornimani (larvae) are a stunning African flower beetle species requiring specialized care to thrive. These grubs need a nutrient-rich substrate of fermented flake soil, well-rotted deciduous leaf litter, and decayed wood maintained at \"compost bag\" consistency—moist but not waterlogged.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHouse larvae individually or in small groups within ventilated containers (1–2 litres for larger specimens), with at least 15 cm of substrate depth. Maintain temperatures between 22–26°C and provide moderate humidity. Drill air holes covered with breathable pest tape to prevent fungal gnats and mites.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFeed larvae directly through their bedding. Every 2–4 weeks, gently sift out waste and refresh with fresh, nutrient-dense substrate. When ready to pupate, the larva will construct an earthen cocoon—avoid disturbing the container during this critical phase. Ideal for dedicated beetle keepers seeking a rewarding rearing project.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCAPTIVE BRED, IN-HOUSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Local Bug Dealer","offers":[{"title":"x1","offer_id":58574137098614,"sku":null,"price":5.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"x5","offer_id":58574137131382,"sku":null,"price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"chlorocala-africana-flower-beetle","title":"Chlorocala africana \"Flower Beetle\" young Adult (Unsexed)","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Green Jewel Beetle — a living emerald. Chlorocala africana captivates with its iridescent metallic sheen and compact 2–2.5 cm frame. These active daytime flyers are perfect for beginner keepers seeking low-maintenance fascination.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdults thrive for 5–7 months on rotting fruit, while larvae develop over 4–5 months in decaying wood and leaf litter. Simple terrariums with basic substrate and fruit offerings are all they need to flourish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIdeal for collectors wanting natural beauty without complexity — a stunning, easy-care addition to any live insect collection.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCAPTIVE BRED, IN-HOUSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Local Bug Dealer","offers":[{"title":"x1","offer_id":58574135296374,"sku":null,"price":6.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"x5","offer_id":58574135329142,"sku":null,"price":27.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/7569\/7526\/files\/IMG_0885_56682eea-300a-42e8-be31-4158f5933ee3.jpg?v=1787742882"},{"product_id":"chlorocala-africana-flower-beetle-larvae","title":"Chlorocala africana (Flower Beetle) Larvae L1\/L2 (Unsexed)","description":"Chlorocala africana (Flower Beetle) Larvae Care Guide\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCaring for Chlorocala africana larvae requires the right substrate, moisture balance, and feeding routine to support healthy development from L1 through L3 instars.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHousing Setup\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUse a medium-sized plastic container with small ventilation holes. Fill it with a deep layer of decomposed, crushed deciduous leaves—oak or beech work best—mixed with flake soil or forest floor humus. Avoid pine and conifer woods entirely.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMoisture Management\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSpray the enclosure every few days to keep the substrate soft and slightly damp. Never allow it to become waterlogged. Maintain room temperature throughout the larval period.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFeeding and Substrate Maintenance\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLarvae consume the organic substrate continuously, converting it to frass. Replace the substrate when it becomes mostly waste, but always retain 25–33% of the old material to preserve essential gut microflora. In later larval stages, you may add optional protein boosters like specialized Beetle Boost or crushed dog food in small amounts.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDevelopment Timeline\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe larval stage typically lasts 3 to 5 months across three instars. When ready to pupate, larvae spin cocoons from soil and frass. Do not disturb, break open, or peel these cocoons—allow the adult beetle to develop undisturbed inside.","brand":"The Local Bug Dealer","offers":[{"title":"x1","offer_id":58573372490102,"sku":null,"price":2.5,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/7569\/7526\/files\/IMG_0885.jpg?v=1787742826"},{"product_id":"pachnoda-marginata-sun-beetle","title":"Pachnoda marginata \"Sun Beetle\" Adult (Male\/Female Pairs) or single beetles","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe sun beetle (Pachnoda marginata) is a stunning West African flower beetle, instantly recognizable by its bright yellow-and-black markings. Perfect for beginner keepers, these active daytime flyers bring vibrant movement to any insect setup.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAdults reach 20–30 mm and live 5–10 months. They thrive in temperatures between 20–28°C (ideally 25°C) and need a medium vivarium (minimum 30x30x40 cm) with branches for climbing and flight space. Provide a deep 10 cm substrate layer of damp coir, leaf litter, and rotten wood to support natural burrowing behaviour.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFeed adults soft fruits like bananas and oranges, plus insect jelly. Larvae develop in the substrate, feeding on rotting wood and leaf mould. Their diurnal nature means you'll enjoy watching them during daylight hours—ideal for interactive observation and education.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCAPTIVE BRED, IN-HOUSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e(Male \u0026amp; Female pairs) or (Single beetles)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Local Bug Dealer","offers":[{"title":"x2 (one pair)","offer_id":58573334708598,"sku":null,"price":7.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"x4 (two pairs)","offer_id":58573334741366,"sku":null,"price":14.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"x6 (3 pairs)","offer_id":58573334774134,"sku":null,"price":24.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"x1 (Single Beetle)","offer_id":58582108799350,"sku":null,"price":5.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/7569\/7526\/files\/IMG_9137_1.jpg?v=1787742525"},{"product_id":"pachnoda-marginata-sun-beetle-larvae","title":"Pachnoda marginata \"Sun Beetle\" Larvae (unsexed) L2","description":"\u003cp\u003eSun beetle larvae (Pachnoda marginata) are fascinating invertebrates that require specific care to thrive. These grubs feed continuously on nutrient-rich substrate and develop over 3 to 5 months before pupating.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSet up a small to medium ventilated plastic tub with 10 to 15 cm of substrate made from a 1:1 mix of forest humus and white rotten wood (such as oak). Avoid coconut fiber, which lacks essential nutrients. Top with dried leaves to maintain moisture levels.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMaintain temperatures between 24 and 28 °C for optimal development. Keep the substrate damp like freshly opened potting soil—never waterlogged—and mist lightly every few days. As larvae consume the substrate, replace it periodically to ensure continued nutrition and healthy growth. Perfect for educators, hobbyists, and anyone interested in observing insect metamorphosis up close.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCAPTIVE BRED, IN-HOUSE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"The Local Bug Dealer","offers":[{"title":"x10","offer_id":58582142484854,"sku":null,"price":5.99,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false},{"title":"x20","offer_id":58582142517622,"sku":null,"price":11.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/7569\/7526\/files\/IMG_9137_1_bee16605-71a0-48b3-9f80-2c1940412ec4.jpg?v=1787742750"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1012\/7569\/7526\/collections\/IMG_0885.jpg?v=1787936410","url":"https:\/\/thelocalbugdealer.com\/collections\/beetles-larvae-the-heavy-hitters.oembed","provider":"The Local Bug Dealer","version":"1.0","type":"link"}