Goliath Beetles are known as the strongest animal in the world, size-wise. They are able to carry many times their own body weight on their backs, and have also been said to be a very successful living species due to their versatility.

The Goliath Beetle belongs to the scarab family, which is comprised of 30,000 different species. In the wild Goliath beetles feed on dead plant matter, sap, sugary items such a fruit and dung. They also use their sharp claws for piercing vines in order to drink the juice inside. Goliath larvae prey on insects, though they are reported to do quite well on dry dog food in captivity. The Goliath Beetle is a skilled climber and they fly actively. The sound heard when the fly is often said to resemble that of mini-helicopters. The Goliath Beetle has an excellent sense of scent and is also said to have good vision as well.

Goliath Beetles are aptly named; they will grow to a length of four and a half inches long with weights often exceeding 100 grams. They are a slowing growing species, taking several months to attain their full size. Goliath Beetles are quite beautiful with markings that come in several colors including black, white, yellow, and brown. Black and white is the most common combination. Goliath Beetles also have black distinct vertical black and white stripes on their thoracic shields. Their first pair of wings is strengthened to protect their second pair, which is used for flight. Each of their six legs possesses a pair of claws. They have scent receptors on their antennae and well-formed eyes. Males and females are easily distinguished. Males have a "y" shaped horn on their heads, which is used for battling other males. The female lacks a horn and has a wedge-shaped head.

All species of Goliath Beetle originate in Africa.

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In the wild the Goliath Beetle female will lay eggs in decomposing wood found in the tropical rainforests. In captivity, the substrate must mimic that of the natural habitat. A substrate composed of well-ground rotting wood is recommended.