Australian Rhinoceros Beetle Xylotrupes australicus

Photo of Australian Rhinoceros Beetle (Xylotrupes australicus)

(c) Jane C Frost, some rights reserved (CC BY)

OrderBeetles (Coleoptera)
FamilyScarabs (Scarabaeidae)
GenusXylotrupes (Xylotrupes)

These armored giants belong to a genus containing over 25 species and subspecies with remarkable global reach. While the genus thrives mainly in Asia, this Australian representative carries the signature feature of all rhino beetles: an imposing horn-like projection that's as impressive as it is formidable.

Despite their fearsome appearance, these hefty beetles are largely herbivorous, using their horns more for sparring with rivals than hunting prey.

Think you can identify this one in the wild?

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