Goliath beetles are giant scarab beetles of African rainforests. They are among the largest and heaviest insects in the world.
Interesting facts
- Males have a Y-shaped horn on their heads, used in fights with rivals.
- Despite their size, adults are strong fliers and buzz loudly.
- Their bold black-and-white patterns vary between species.
- The larvae need more protein than most beetle larvae.
- There are five species of goliath beetle.
- They are sought after by insect collectors.
Behaviour
Adults fly through the canopy searching for sap and ripe fruit. Males fight over feeding sites and females.
Breeding and young
Females lay eggs in soil or decaying wood, where the larvae grow for months before pupating.
Threats and conservation
Deforestation and collection for the insect trade.
Where to see it
- Rainforests of Cameroon and Gabon
- Forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Uganda’s forests
- Insect houses and natural history museums
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
