Invertebrate · Beetle
Sun beetle care guide
Pachnoda marginata
The sun beetle is a beginner-level beetle from West and Central Africa. Adults reach Body 2.5–3 cm and live Adults 3–6 months (1 year from egg) in captivity. Larvae need deep, rich soil.
- Enclosure 30 × 20 × 20 cm
- Temp 24–28°C
- Humidity 60–70%
How much does a sun beetle cost in Canada?
Sun beetle quick facts
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Adult size
- Body 2.5–3 cm
- Lifespan
- Adults 3–6 months (1 year from egg)
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- West and Central Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 in, ≈ 3 US gal)
- Housing
- A colony species – best kept in a group.
- Temperature
- 24–28°C
- Humidity
- 60–70%
- UVB
- Not needed
- Diet
- Adults: frugivore – fruit, beetle jelly. Larvae: rotting leaves and wood
- Bioactive style
- Invertebrate colony
Sun beetle enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (12 × 8 × 8 inches). A colony species – best kept in a group. This species suits a invertebrate colony bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix15 cm
Leaf litter is food here, not decoration – keep a thick layer topped up. Keep one side damper than the other.
Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 60–70%. UVB: Not needed.
What does a sun beetle eat?
Adults: frugivore – fruit, beetle jelly. Larvae: rotting leaves and wood. Give adults fresh fruit every 2–3 days; keep larval substrate rich in decaying leaves.
Handling, temperament & health
Adults fly well; handle gently and keep the lid on.
Health watch: Fruit flies and mould from old fruit; remove leftovers promptly.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Nothing needed most days.
Weekly
- Mist the damp side; add vegetables or protein food in small amounts and remove leftovers after 24–48 h.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter and add a calcium source (cuttlebone).
- Thin out the colony or split it if it gets crowded.
Yearly
- Replace about a third of the soil, which turns into frass over time.
Recommended for a sun beetle bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (30 × 20 × 20 cm).
Sun beetle FAQ
Is the sun beetle good for beginners?
Yes – the sun beetle is a good choice for beginners. Adults fly well; handle gently and keep the lid on.
What size enclosure does a sun beetle need?
At least 30 × 20 × 20 cm (about 12 × 8 × 8 inches, roughly 3 US gallons) for one adult. A colony species – best kept in a group.
How much does a sun beetle cost in Canada?
Typically $10–25 CAD to buy, about $130–230 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $30–60 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a sun beetle need?
Temperature: 24–28°C. Humidity: 60–70%.
What does a sun beetle eat?
Adults: frugivore – fruit, beetle jelly. Larvae: rotting leaves and wood. Give adults fresh fruit every 2–3 days; keep larval substrate rich in decaying leaves.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.