The Goliath beetle is a heavyweight insect that grows on a diet of pet food.

Nature · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Among the largest insects on Earth, Goliath beetles are giants of the African tropical forests. While adults feed on fruit and tree sap, their larvae require a surprisingly protein-rich diet to reach their massive size. These beetles are masters of metamorphosis, building hardened cocoons to transform into their final form.

The genus Goliathus comprises six distinct species of beetles, all members of the subfamily Cetoniinae within the family Scarabaeidae. These insects are renowned for their immense size, bulk, and weight. Adult males typically measure between 6 and 11 centimeters, while females range from 5 to 8 centimeters. Their physical appearance is striking, often featuring contrasting black vertical stripes on the thoracic shield, with elytral patterns that vary by species. Males are distinguished by a Y-shaped horn used for combat over mates and food, whereas females possess a wedge-shaped head designed for burrowing during egg-laying.

The larval stage is a period of intense growth, during which these insects can reach lengths of up to 250 millimeters and exceed 100 grams in weight. Unlike many other scarabs, Goliath larvae have a high demand for protein. In captivity, researchers have successfully reared them using commercial cat or dog food, supplemented by a substrate of decayed wood and leaves. This growth phase takes several months. Once maximum size is achieved, the larva constructs a protective cell from sandy soil to undergo pupation, a complex process where tissues are reorganized into the adult form.

Upon emerging from their cocoons, adult Goliath beetles focus almost exclusively on reproduction. They possess a hardened exoskeleton and specialized forewings called elytra, which remain closed during flight—a trait rare among beetles but universal in cetoniine scarabs. While adults can live for about a year in captivity, their lifespan in the wild is likely shorter due to environmental pressures. Currently, these beetles face significant conservation challenges, including habitat loss, the international pet trade, and climate change, though they have not yet been evaluated on the IUCN Red List.

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