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Ox beetle

Ox beetle

Strategus aloeus

A species of Ox beetles, Also known as Elephant beetle, Rhinoceros beetle, Scarab

The ox beetle (Strategus aloeus) is considered a pest because its larvae feed on decaying wood and even roots when necessary. There are two variations of males: one with two large horns on the sides and a single horn in the center and one with two stubby horns. However, females never have any horns.

General Info About Ox beetle
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Attributes of Ox beetle
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
lawn; garden
Adult Food Sources
Tree sap, fruit juices, plant nectar, decaying fruits, leaves
Larva Food Source
Decaying plant matter, rotting wood, decomposing leaves, humus, organic matter in soil
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Ox beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Ox beetle
Although It occurs in the United States, its populations are much higher in Mexico, Central America and parts of South America.
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Distribution Area of Ox beetle
Florida, Arizona, South America, Mexico
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Appearance of Ox beetle
The "major" males of this species have three large horns on their thoraces, resembling the Triceratops. The "minor" males have horns, as well, but the two back ones are small and the frontal horn is much shorter than the horn in major males. The female ox beetle has a very short horn. These beetles grow to about 2.5 - 4 cm long as adults when the horns are excluded in the males.
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How to Identify Ox beetle?

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Life Cycle of Ox beetle
Egg The ox beetle begins life as an egg. The size is small and the color can vary. The egg's primary function is to provide a safe, nurturing environment for the developing larva.
Larva As a larva, the ox beetle grows rapidly, lacking wings and reproductive structures. It consumes food voraciously, molting several times as it increases in size.
Pupal In the pupal stage, the ox beetle is encased in a protective cocoon. Significant transformation occurs as the larval body reorganizes into an adult, with color and shape changing profoundly.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult ox beetle's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Ox beetle
2.5 - 4 cm
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Predators of Ox beetle Larvae
Ants, rodents, birds
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Scientific Classification of Ox beetle
Tips for Finding Ox beetle
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Adult Habitat of Ox beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Ox beetle Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of ox beetle are typically found in rotting logs or moist soil rich in decaying organic matter, as these locations provide the necessary nutrients for their growth. To search for them, one must investigate decaying wood or dig through leaf litter and soil, particularly in wooded or forested areas. The adult ox beetle, in contrast, is commonly spotted on or around tree trunks and branches, attracted to sap flows or fruits for feeding. To find adults, check trees at dusk or during nighttime, when they are most actively foraging. These areas where adults and larvae exist suggest that the insect’s development stages occur in habitats with an abundance of decomposing plant material.
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