ECOLOGY
Bolitotherus cornutus, commonly known as the Forked Fungus Beetle, is a unique, triceratops like - beetle in the family Tenebrionidae. Reaching a maximum length of 18 mm, this species has the longest recorded adult lifespan all Canadian beetles - over 8 years in captivity!
Widespread accross Eastern North America, Bolitotherus cornutus is a communal species associated with bracket fungi of the genus Ganoderma, Fomes and Fomitopsis. Eggs are laid directly upon the surface of bracket fungi, and upon hatching, larvae will feed and develop within the fungus. The total life cycle from egg to adult occurs in approximately 3 months. Pupation occurs within the fungus and adults will remain on the same fungus for multiple generations until it has been consumed. Adults are arboreal in the wild, and as such, this species will greatly benefit from a well designed terrestrial vivarium. Adults are also capable of "playing dead" if threatened.
CARE
In captivity, Bolitotherus cornutus 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 type is not critical, but should retain humidity. Host fungus should be placed above the substrate, ideally mounted on a bark surface which replicates their natural arboreal habitat in nature.
FEEDING
In captivity, Bolitotherus cornutus feed and breed on the hard polypore mushrooms in the genus Fomes, Fomitopsis and Ganoderma.
BREEDING
Breeding Bolitotherus cornutus in fairly straight - forward. Provide the correct fungus, and breeding is automatic. Replace consumed fungi as needed.
SPECIES : BOLITOTHERUS CORNUTUS COMMON NAME : FORKED FUNGUS BEETLE
LIFESPAN : ★★★★★ COMMUNAL : ★★★★★
BREEDING DIFFICULTY : ★
EASE OF ADULT CARE : ★★★★★