Anthia biguttata (Nigeria) Care Sheet

Quick Facts

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Behavior

• Extremely fast, alert, and aggressive predators.

• Can spray defensive chemicals if threatened—avoid handling.

• Solitary hunters; highly territorial.

• Prefers staying at ground level but can climb short surfaces.

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Enclosure Requirements

• Tank Size: Minimum 30 liters for one adult; larger if housing pairs

• Substrate: 3–5 cm of dry sand-soil mix or coco fiber; mostly dry

• Decor: Flat rocks, bark pieces, low hides, branches

• Humidity: 40–60% (low to moderate)

• Temperature:

  • Day: 24–29°C

  • Night: 20–22°C

• Lighting: Low light; no special lighting needed

• Ventilation: Good airflow is essential; avoid moisture buildup

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Compatibility

• Best housed singly or as a monitored pair.

• Cannibalistic—do not house with other beetle species, smaller invertebrates, or conspecifics outside monitored breeding attempts.

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Diet

• Strictly carnivorous. Feed live prey:

  • Crickets

  • Roaches

  • Mealworms / superworms

  • Waxworms (occasional treat)

• Feeding Frequency: 2-3× per week

• Remove uneaten prey after 24 hours

• Provide a shallow water dish 

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Care Tips

• Avoid handling—the beetle’s defensive spray can irritate skin and eyes.

• Maintain dry substrate; occasional light misting is enough.

• Provide multiple hiding spots to reduce stress.

• Clean uneaten prey and waste promptly.

• Ensure escape-proof enclosure; beetles are strong climbers and very fast.

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Breeding

• Breeding is challenging in captivity.

• Females lay eggs in dry soil; larvae are predatory and require deep substrate.

• Cannibalism among larvae is common—requires isolated rearing.

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Visual Quick Guide

• 🏠 Enclosure: ≥30 L, dry substrate, multiple hides

• 🌡️ Temp: Day 24–29°C / Night 20–22°C

• 💧 Humidity: 40–60%

• 🍴 Diet: Carnivorous (live insects)

• 🕒 Activity: Nocturnal, extremely fast

• ⚠️ Stress: Avoid handling; provide hides