mniszechi into majors and minors with the switch point of mandible length at 14.01 mm. We investigated the allometric relationship between mandible and body size in males of the stag beetle Cyclommatus mniszechi to uncover distinct morphs. Mandible size in stag beetles can be associated with different behaviours and the outcome of male contests. Male stag beetles (Coleoptera: Lucanidae) use their mandibles as weapons to compete for resources and reproduction. Blindfolded experiments prove that visual information is not a requisite for a successful battle. For this purpose, they bite with all parts of their mandibles, even though the distal part is more vulnerable for failure and transfers less bite force. The long mandibles enable males to reach the opponent’s legs in order to dislodge it. The largest beetle wins in 85 % of the fights and the smaller the difference in mandible length is between the rivals, the longer the battles can last. The prothoracic muscles are hypertrophied to support the lifting movement. The male claws are highly curved and have an increased height for this purpose. These tarsal claws are also indispensable to maintain balance in the most spectacular battles, when they lift a rival high in the air. They spend considerable time and effort in dislodging their opponent, that clings to the substrate with its tarsal claws. Stag beetle fights are much more variable than other armed beetles’ battles. Our behavioral analysis reveals several anatomical structures that are important for fighting, and our morphological investigations show how these may be adapted for their functions. We describe their fighting behavior, which is essential to understand the evolution and morphology of their weaponry. Male stag beetles battle for females with their impressive, oversized mandibles.
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