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Chalcosoma caucasus (page 3)

On this page is a selection of photos of fully grown 3rd instar (L3) larvae.
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The fully mature larva of Chalcosoma caucasus.  This larva is at the stage in its growth when it will soon begin construction of the pupation chamber inside which it will undergo metamorphosis to the adult beetle form.  This particular larva (shown at about life size) is a male, as is evidenced by its very large size.
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Chalcosoma caucasus larva (male) - Image © C. Campbell

 
Chalcosoma caucasus larva
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Another 3rd instar (L3) larva of C. caucasus.  Care should be taken whenever handling Chalcosoma larvae of this size because they can deliver a tenacious bite using their short, powerful mandibles.  Their mandibles are designed for crushing wood, but will just as easily pierce through skin.  The many small sensory hairs which run the length of the body can be readily seen in this photograph.
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Another view of a mature 3rd instar C. caucasus larva.  Here, the larva is resting in the characteristic C-shaped posture which is common of most scarab beetle larvae.  Many more photos of the larvae of this species can be seen on the following page.
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Chalcosoma caucasus larva - Image © R. Reed

 
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Photographs and other illustrations (where indicated) are © C. Campbell's NATURAL WORLDS.
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