Hercules Beetle
Dynastes hercules
This massive and powerful insect is appropriately named after the
mythical hero, Hercules. Only the male has horns that are used in
territorial disputes with other males over females and to determine who
is going to be ‘king of the fruit pile.’ It is a good burrower, climber
and strong flyer.
Fact file:
Ecological Role: Decomposer
Lifespan: 1 yr
Habitat: Tropical rainforest
Diet: Rotting fruit
Current Range: Central and southern South America