Harlequin Beetle?

[cyberlocc]

As the title suggests, anyone use or know if Harlequin Beetles are safe for chams? Maybe some nutrition facts as well?

Oh a Harlequin Flower Beetle, is to what I am referring apparently 2 beetles have that name.

 

[oneillchameleons]

If it's the large tropical beetles you're talking about I probably wouldn't risk it. Besides the massive size they grow to (I'm sure you're only planning on feeding small juvenile beetles) bright reds and yellows in nature often indicate toxicity or at the least some sort of noxious defence mechanism. I hope someone chimes in with some more info.

 

[cyberlocc]

If it's the large tropical beetles you're talking about I probably wouldn't risk it. Besides the massive size they grow to (I'm sure you're only planning on feeding small juvenile beetles) bright reds and yellows in nature often indicate toxicity or at the least some sort of noxious defence mechanism. I hope someone chimes in with some more info.

They are not that big, they are like 1 inch, 1.5 maybe.

They are tropical I think but they are US native, here they are.

http://capecodroaches.com/products/harlequin-beetle-larvae

I do not think they are poisonous, as they are being sold as feeders. I do not know if they are toxic to chameleons specifically is the thing.

They eat hardwood and hardwood leaves. Plus they can be gutloaded.

EDIT: they are smaller than I thought lol, here is an adult.

 

[oneillchameleons]

Ah I see, there is also a horrifying creature known as the harlequin beetle in south and Central America (pic below)

I suppose if they're being sold as feeders they should be ok, especially because you can control what they eat. I'm a little wary of the "unique tasting treat" part of that ad. You may want to order a small amount first to make sure your chameleon or other reptiles will eat more than one.

 

[cyberlocc]

Ah I see, there is also a horrifying creature known as the harlequin beetle in south and Central America (pic below)

I suppose if they're being sold as feeders they should be ok, especially because you can control what they eat. I'm a little wary of the "unique tasting treat" part of that ad. You may want to order a small amount first to make sure your chameleon or other reptiles will eat more than one.

Ya I seen that one as well. That is why I edited to add flower beetle. Those ones you linked are a stink but family, and can fly.

These ones are in the scarab family and I don't think they fly I am not sure though. There larva is nice and juicy looking like a horn worm as well .

 

[Andee]

Beetle grubs are very fattening however still have a lot of moisture. I would crush their jaws before offering them to the chameleon (the grubs) depending on what instar you decide to give them in, because later on in their developement they have powerful pincers meant for pulverizing semi-rotting wood. If they bite your cham it would be worse than getting bit by a 4 inch hornworm.