5. Hybridization

    In September 2003, a male G. goliatus was placed with a female G. orientalis, and a group of hybrid larvae were produced.  They grew quickly, and many of the male larvae reached weights of 50 grams within just eight weeks of hatching.  Some attained 70 grams by twelve weeks of age.  The typical maximum weight of the female larvae was 50 grams.  The heaviest weight attained by any of the hybrid larvae was a male of 87 grams.  By July 2004, the hybrid adults began to emerge from their pupal cells. They had beautiful markings, and were quite large (up to 87 mm for males, and 73 mm for females).  Some of the females had elytra that were almost entirely white.  Unfortunately, it appears that this hybrid was infertile.  Despite the fact that many eggs were produced, all of them failed to develop.  This suggests that although hybridization between G. goliatus and G. orientalis is possible, the resulting offspring are not capable of interbreeding.  However, this can only be conclusively proven through multiple attempts to re-breed goliatus X orientalis hybrids.

6. Conclusion

    With their large size, beautiful markings and adult longevity, the Goliath beetles are quite rewarding to captive rear.
 

. G. goliatus X G. orientalis hybrid male (captive reared). Photo courtesy of Karl Meier.

However, diligence is required for optimal rearing of the larvae, and close attention must be paid to environmental conditions during the pupal stage.  Because of this, they are perhaps not the best choice for beginning hobbyists, and it is recommended that those interested in breeding them first gain experience working with related, more easily reared genera such as Chelorrhina, Mecynorhina and Megalorhina. K. Meier Additional photos of G. goliatus X G. orientalis hybrids are shown below and on the following page.

G. goliatus X G. orientalis hybrid male (captive reared). Photo courtesy of Karl Meier.

G. goliatus X G. orientalis hybrid male (captive reared). Photo courtesy of Karl Meier.

G. goliatus X G. orientalis hybrid males (captive reared). Photo courtesy of Karl Meier.