Kinshi (lucanidae soil)

Why choose Kinshi?

Kinshi is a mushroom-based substrate specially designed for rearing larvae from the stag beetle family (Phalacrognathus, Dorcus, Prosopocoilus, etc.).

Originally developed in Japan, Kinshi works by pre-digesting wood through the action of Pleurotus ostreatus (oyster mushroom) mycelium.
Stag beetle larvae cannot break down cellulose themselves – the fungus does it for them. This adapted diet, which closely mimics their natural environment, greatly enhances larval development.

Benefits of Kinshi

• Optimized growth: Speeds up larval development and helps larvae reach optimal weight before pupation

• Natural habitat replication: Dead wood colonized by fungi is the natural environment of many species

• Highly digestible: Pre-digested wood makes nutrient absorption easier and more efficient

🛠️ Usage guidelines

• This is a living substrate (contains active mycelium): store in a cool place (15–20 °C), do not freeze, and use shortly after delivery

• Use one larva per container to maximize growth and avoid cannibalism

• Keep at a stable temperature (18–25 °C), away from direct sunlight

• Monitor humidity: substrate should remain slightly moist to the touch, but not wet

• Depending on species and temperature, one Kinshi container can remain effective for 2 to 5 months before needing replacement