Blue death feigning beetles can comfortably live together at a density of two beetles per gallon of enclosure space. This means the number of beetles you can house depends directly on the size of their habitat.
Housing Guidelines for Blue Death Feigning Beetles
These small, desert-dwelling insects are relatively low-maintenance, and their compact size allows for a good number of them to be housed in a single enclosure. The general guideline for creating a suitable environment is based on the volume of the tank.
- Rule of Thumb: Plan for 2 blue death feigning beetles for every 1 gallon of tank capacity.
This density allows for ample space for them to roam, burrow, and interact without becoming overly stressed due to overcrowding.
Examples of Housing Capacity
To illustrate how many beetles can share a space, consider these common tank sizes:
| Enclosure Size (Gallons) | Maximum Number of Blue Death Feigning Beetles |
|---|---|
| 1 Gallon | 2 |
| 2.5 Gallons | 5 |
| 5 Gallons | 10 |
| 10 Gallons | 20 |
| 20 Gallons | 40 |
Important Considerations for Group Housing
When housing multiple blue death feigning beetles together, it's beneficial to keep a few things in mind to ensure their well-being:
- Substrate: Provide a deep layer of sandy substrate for burrowing, as they enjoy digging and hiding.
- Decor: Include various hides, rocks, and pieces of cork bark to offer enrichment and separate spaces. This can help reduce potential stress, although they are generally peaceful.
- Enclosure Security: Blue death feigning beetles are not capable of climbing up smooth surfaces. Therefore, a specialized lid is generally not a necessity to prevent escapes, though good airflow is always beneficial.
By following these simple guidelines, you can create a thriving communal habitat for your blue death feigning beetles, allowing them to coexist peacefully and display their natural behaviors.
