African fruit beetle

Order: Beetles (Coleoptera)
Family: Scarab beetles (Scarabaeidae)

Habitat

Africa

Informations

These strikingly colourful African beetles, with their remarkably varied patterns, are close relatives of the rose chafer found in Hungary. They are mainly distributed throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, where they inhabit forests and savannahs.

Adult beetles feed primarily on fruit, nectar and plant sap, while their larvae help decompose dead plant matter. They therefore play an important role in the nutrient cycle of their ecosystems. Most species are active during the day and are capable of flight. Their conspicuous colours often serve to deter predators.

African fruit beetles are commonly bred in Hungary because they are relatively easy to keep. Their larvae are highly nutritious and provide excellent food for many smaller reptiles. Thanks to their spectacular appearance, they are also popular among exotic pet keepers.