The Goliath beetle is one of the largest insects in the world, and is one of the heaviest flying insects. It has been known to grow up to 11 cm and can weigh up to 45 grams.
Currently there are 5 known species of the Goliath beetle. Four of the species prefer the tropical rainforests around the equator, with only one found in the temperate zone. The female Goliath beetle lays her eggs on rotting wood. When the larvae hatch they feed on this dead wood, and also on other insects; it is unusual for larvae of any kind to do this. The larvae grow to be very large, often reaching up to 6 inches (150 mm) in length, and can weigh over 3 1/2 ounces (100 grams)!