Augosoma centaurus ()

About

It is speculated that this species' Latin name originated from the Greek mythological creature known as the "centaur". Initially, they were thought to belong to the Dynastes family (found in tropical America) due to their similarity in appearance; however, recent studies revealed that these beetles are unrelated to this particular family. This species is native and endemic to tropical Western Africa, so its distribution is limited.

These beetles can grow from 40 to 90 millimetres long, with males usually being larger than females. The head and pronotum extensions are found only on males, as they are using them to fight over females. In real life, their colours usually range from brown to black.

The biology of this species is not well described. Recent studies suggest that these insects are most active during November, especially during the evenings. Larvae feed on decaying wood and leaves, sometimes nibbling on underground parts of plants.

Augosoma centaurus beetles can be quite a menace to local farmers as they can damage crops. Their habitat consists of secondary forests, marshes, and damp areas, especially rotting stumps of raffia palms. Sometimes, their larvae can be found buried in coconut stumps.