Lyristes plebejus, commonly known as the European stag beetle, is a large and impressive insect belonging to the family Lucanidae. Males of this species can reach up to 7 centimeters in length, with long mandibles resembling the antlers of a stag. They are primarily found in deciduous forests across Europe, where they play a vital role in the ecosystem as decomposers, feeding on decaying wood. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are harmless to humans.