It is commonly referred to as the rugose stag beetle, and is the only known member of the genus Sinodendron to occur in western North America.

The adults of this species exhibit sexual dimorphism, a common trait in Lucanidae, as well as unopposable clubbed antennae.

[1][2] Sinodendron rugosum is found in moist woodlands from British Columbia to California.

[2] The white, C-shaped larvae hatch on bark and tunnel inward, creating pupal chambers in decaying wood.

[1] Sinodendron rugosum has been identified as one of many species eaten by the Northern Spotted Owl Strix occidentalis.