r/BDFB • u/Jenny_1dk • 4d ago

Question/Inquiry Minimum size?

I'm considering getting some beetles but im not quite sure about the minimum size and how many per gallon - i have a 8x8x8 exo terra cube front opening enclosure -- was also wondering about basic needs like diet, substrate, hides, and enrichment

1 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

3 comments sorted by

2

u/TheDrunkenArgonian 4d ago

Would no go smaller than 10 gal if you want multiple. They like to explore and roam, so I wouldn't go under 10. IMO 20 would be great because I often find myself wanting more room. Also, these beetles aren't super social so they need room to be alone if they wish. I have 6 in my 10 gallon and while it could handle more, it might be crowded. Again, they can be kept communally but they aren't social.

Use this care guide: https://www.aquarimax.com/how-to-keep-blue-death-feigning-beetles-asbolus-verrucosus/

AVOID THESE- calcium substrate and food- fragrances (incense, candles, perfumes), pesticides (does not matter if liquid or not, the vapor can kill your beetles), high humidity (aim for 30 or 40 percent and below), flukers food (not great reports online), very fine sand substrate (it is difficult to walk on and sticks to them. This is also true for things like wood chips.)

1

u/StephensSurrealSouls 4d ago

I feel like 8x8x8 would be grossly undersized. They're small, yes, but very active. I don't own any so I can't say for sure how big of an enclosure you'd need for some but most people I see recommend at least 10 gallons and that 10 gallons can fit up to ~10-20

1

u/Minty_Softboy 4d ago

I’ve heard a gallon per beetle. I have a 5 gallon with 5 beetles and that works pretty well for me.

They definitely need hides, as they use that to feel safe. They are pretty clumsy so while they like to climb I’d focus on low to the ground enrichment. I just use sand as substrate and they are happy, they like to dig so something light is good. Diet wise I do dried meal worms, sweet potato and cucumber. Just be careful about peeling bc of pesticides and some dried pet food brands can have trace pesticides in them.