Expensive, Rare, Symbolic: A Stag Beetle, symbol of good luck, costs Rs 75 lakh – Characteristics, habitat, medicinal use and more

A single stag beetle can cost up to Rs. 75 lakh, making it one of the most expensive insects globally. This rare insect is considered a symbol of good luck, with some believing that owning one can bring sudden wealth. This belief has significantly increased their market value.

Unique Characteristics

Stag beetles are known for their enlarged mandibles and male polymorphism. A recent study in the Scientific Data journal described them as a “significant saproxylic assemblage in forest ecosystems.” The male stag beetle’s mandibles resemble stag antlers, which they use to compete for mates during the breeding season.

Habitat and Distribution

Stag beetles thrive in warm, tropical climates and are sensitive to cold temperatures. They naturally inhabit woodlands but can also be found in urban areas like parks and gardens, where dead wood is plentiful. They are also present in hedgerows and traditional orchards, environments that provide the necessary conditions for their survival and reproduction.

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Diet and Feeding Habits

Adult stag beetles primarily consume sweet liquids like tree sap and juice from rotting fruit. They rely on energy reserves accumulated during their larval stage to sustain them throughout their adult life. Stag beetle larvae feed on dead wood, using their sharp jaws to scrape and extract splinters from the fibrous surface. Because they exclusively eat dead wood, they do not pose a threat to living trees or shrubs.

Lifespan and Physical Characteristics

According to the Natural History Museum in London, stag beetles weigh between 2 and 6 grams and live for an average of 3 to 7 years. Males typically measure 35–75 mm in length, while females are 30–50 mm long. Their size and lifespan contribute to their uniqueness and rarity.

Medicinal Use

Stag beetles are also used in medicinal practices, although specific applications are not detailed in available sources. Their use in medicine adds another layer to their value and intrigue.

The stag beetle’s high price and unique attributes have made it a subject of fascination and study. As a significant part of forest ecosystems, these insects play an important role in decomposition, aiding in nutrient cycling and forest health. Their rarity and symbolic significance in various cultures have further elevated their status and market value.