Stag beetles are among the world's most intriguing and visually striking insects. Known for their impressive mandibles, these beetles exhibit fascinating behaviours and adaptations that make them stand out in the insect kingdom. There are over a thousand species of stag beetles throughout the world. You will mainly find stag beetles (Lucanus cervus) across south-east England and most of Europe. As they spend the majority of their life cycle underground, their distribution is influenced by both climate and soil type. They are also found in the areas with the lowest rainfall and highest average temperatures. Stag beetles, however, do not live in areas with chalky soils as these are hard for them to burrow down into and dig their way out. But, do you know the price cost of stag beetles? Why the cost is so high? We at LatestLY have collated several interesting facts about the World’s most expensive insect including its usage and lifespan. Take a look. Insect Use in Food: Singapore Approves 16 Insects Like Crickets, Locusts and Silkworms for Human Consumption.

Cost of Stag Beetles in India

A single stag beetle costs up to INR 75 lakh in India. It is a rare insect and is considered a symbol of good luck, with some believing it brings sudden wealth. The belief that stag beetles can make a person wealthy has contributed to their high market value.

Distinctive Appearance of Stag Beetles

Stag beetles are easily recognisable by their large, antler-like mandibles, especially prominent in males. These mandibles resemble the antlers of a stag, hence their name. The males use these impressive jaws to wrestle with rivals during mating competitions, showcasing their strength and dominance.

Size and Lifespan of Stag Beetles

Male stag beetles measure 35-37mm in body length, while females measure 24-48mm in body length. Larvae measure up to 80mm long. Despite their formidable appearance, stag beetles have a surprisingly short adult lifespan, living only a few months. However, their larval stage can last several years, during which they develop underground, feeding on decaying wood.

Habitat and Distribution of Stag Beetles

Stag beetles are primarily found in forests, woodlands, and areas with abundant decaying wood, which serves as a critical food source for their larvae. They are distributed across various parts of the World, including Europe, Asia, and North America. In Europe, the stag beetle (Lucanus cervus) is particularly notable and is often considered a symbol of healthy woodland ecosystems. Largest Insect in the World: Know All About the Goliath Beetle Measuring Around 2.5 to 4.3 Inches in Length.

Role in the Ecosystem

As decomposers, stag beetles play a vital role in nutrient cycling within their habitats. Their larvae break down dead wood, contributing to decomposition and enriching the soil with organic matter. This ecological function helps maintain the health of forest ecosystems, making stag beetles essential components of their environment.

Stag Beetles Uses

Stag beetles are also believed to be useful in medicinal practises. They have been used in traditional medicine to treat ailments such as rheumatism and arthritis, which adds another layer to their value.

Stag beetles are remarkable insects with unique adaptations and significant ecological roles. Understanding and appreciating their environmental contributions can inspire tremendous efforts to protect and conserve these fascinating creatures. By safeguarding their habitats and promoting conservation initiatives, we can ensure that stag beetles continue to thrive and enrich our natural World.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 09, 2024 01:57 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).