Eudicella gralli

About Eudicella gralli

Eudicella gralli is a medium-sized cetoniine beetle from Central and East Africa. Adults reach 25–40mm and are strikingly beautiful — bright iridescent green with cream or yellow longitudinal stripes on the elytra. Several subspecies exist with varying colour intensity. Males have a small, branched cephalic horn.

Eudicella occupies a similar niche to Chelorrhina in terms of difficulty — a step up from Pachnoda, but not as demanding as Mecynorrhina. The shorter life cycle (6–10 months from egg to adult) means you see results relatively quickly.

Larval care

Larvae are typical cetoniines — white C-shaped grubs that feed on fermented hardwood substrate. Do not use regular compost or potting soil.

• Fermented deciduous hardwood flake soil as the primary food source
• 1–2 litres of substrate per larva
• Can be raised in groups if given enough space, but individual housing produces more consistent results
• Replace substrate every 2–3 months
• Keep moist — drying out slows development and can be fatal to small larvae

Larvae build a cocoon from compacted substrate and frass when ready to pupate. As with all cetoniines, this structure must not be disturbed. The pupal stage lasts 4–6 weeks. Newly emerged adults may remain in the cocoon for 1–2 weeks before becoming active.

Adult enclosure & feeding

A ventilated enclosure of 30×20×20cm is adequate for a small group. Provide bark, twigs, and leaf litter for climbing. Adults are diurnal and active — you will see them flying and feeding during the day.

Feed beetle jelly and ripe fruit (banana, mango, peach, fig). Flower petals (roses, dandelions) are also appreciated. Replace food every 1–2 days.

Breeding

Females lay eggs in moist flake soil. Provide 15cm of substrate depth. Eggs hatch in 2–3 weeks. A female typically produces 15–25 eggs. The relatively fast life cycle makes this species well-suited for building a self-sustaining colony.