The 'stag beetle' is one of the most expensive insects in the world. The cost of the insect can be Rs 75 lakhs. It is expensive as it is quite rare and to be a lucky charm. Some think that keeping a stag beetle can make you rich overnight.
These insects represent a "significant saproxylic assemblage in forest ecosystems and are noted for their enlarged mandibles and male polymorphism," read a recent study in the Scientific Data journal.
As per the London-based Natural History Museum, these insects weigh between 2-6 grams and have an average lifespan of 3-7 years. While the males are 35-75mm long, the females are 30-50mm in length. They are also used for medicinal purposes.
The name of the stag beetle has been derived from the distinctive mandibles that are found on the male ones, resembling an antler of stags. The male stag beetles use their distinctive, antler-like jaws to battle each other for the chance to mate with females during the breeding season.
Stag beetles thrive in warm, tropical environments and are sensitive to cold temperatures. They naturally inhabit woodlands, but can also be found in hedgerows, traditional orchards, and urban areas like parks and gardens, where dead wood is abundant.