ECOLOGY
Xyloryctes jamaicensis, commonly known as the unicorn beetle or eastern rhinoceros beetle, is our largest and most impressive rhinoceros beetle in the family Dynastinae in Canada. Reaching a maximum length of 35 mm, this species has a recorded adult lifespan of over 1.5 years in captivity. Native to the sandy soils of Eastern North America, Xyloryctes jamaicensis are an elusive, rare nocturnal species associated with White Ash trees ( Fraxinus americana ). Eggs are laid in the rotten roots White Ash tees. Upon hatching, larvae will emerge to the surface and travel several meters away from their host tree, feeding on rotten leaf litter until reaching full size. Pupation occurs several inches beneath the substrate surface with adults emerging in early June. Adults are terrestrial in the wild, but will climb if given the opportunity. As such, this species will greatly benefit from a well designed terrestrial vivarium.
CARE
In captivity, Xyloryctes jamaicensis can be kept communally in groups. Humidity should be maintained above 70 % at all times which can be achieved by ensuring a moist but never damp substrate. Substrate should contain a majority % crumbled leaf litter, sand and rotten wood based substrate. This species are clumsy and care must be made to ensure the substrate is equipped with bark, moss or other textures to enable the beetle to right themselves should they tumble on their back.
FEEDING
In captivity, larvae of Xyloryctes jamaicensis can be fed rotten leaf litter and rotten wood. Adults prefer watermelon and apple.
BREEDING
Breeding Xyloryctes jamaicensis in by far the most challenging of all Canadian beetles. Substrate should contain a large percentage of crumbled, rotten leaf litter containing the naturally occurring white mycelium, as well as white rotten wood.
SPECIES : XYLORYCTES JAMAICENSIS COMMON NAME : EASTERN RHINOCEROS BEETLE
LIFESPAN : ★★★★ COMMUNAL : ★★★★★
BREEDING DIFFICULTY : ★★★★★
EASE OF ADULT CARE : ★★★★