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June 13, 2025
When creatures of extraordinary strength are discovered, they are given names to suit their incredible feats. Two examples of this are the Hercules beetle and the Rhinoceros beetle, both incredibly powerful for their size and species. But which is more powerful? Does a Rhino beat the god-like Hercules? Let's take a closer look.
Both the Rhinoceros Beetle (Dynastinae) and the Hercules Beetle (Dynastes hercules) are close relatives, belonging to the Dynastinae family. The Hercules Beetle is one of the largest flying insects in the world, reaching up to seven inches in length. They are also the most powerful insect in the world, capable of lifting up to 850 times their own body weight, according to One Earth. Weighing in at around 85 grams, this would mean it could technically lift up to 72.25 kilograms, or around 159 pounds. The Hercules Beetle also wields horns on its head and thorax (body part between head and abdomen) reaching around one third of its total body length.
The Rhinoceros beetle, on the other hand, is slightly less impressive. They can reach up to six inches in length, weighing between 18 and 28 grams. However, the size can range between different species of Rhinoceros beetle (technically including the Hercules Beetle). Their horns are typically smaller than those of a Hercules Beetle as well, ranging from small nubs to horns up to ⅔ its body size, but still smaller than the typical Hercules Beetle horn length. They also are capable of immense strength, able to lift up to 100 times their body weight.
Looking at the basic information previously provided, this looks like an easy victory for the Hercules Beetle, due to its larger size and higher strength capacity. But there are other factors that can even the odds in favor of the Rhino beetles. Both species are famous for their incredible strength, but are typically docile and non-aggressive. Both species have been observed fighting members of their same species by attempting to lift each other up into the air or flipping them on their back. While the Hercules Beetle is larger and stronger, the average Rhinoceros beetle can maneuver faster around the Hercules Beetle and can get a quick hold of its body. A particularly large Rhinoceros beetle also stands a fair chance against the Hercules Beetle.
When it comes down to it though, the Hercules Beetle is still just a type of Rhinoceros beetle. While the Hercules Beetle would technically win against most Rhinoceros beetles, they themselves are still types of Rhinoceros beetles, giving the victory to the Rhinoceros beetle.
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