Dynastines are best known for their immense size and the amazing horn-like structures that the males of many species possess.  These structures are used mainly for defending feeding sites and during strength contests with other males over mates during the breeding season.  Although the vast majority of these "Rhinoceros beetles" are found within the planet's equatorial rain forests, there are a few species that live in more temperate latitudes such as North America and Europe.  Some of the tropical South American species are giants of the insect world, reaching lengths of 4.75 - 6.75 inches (120 - 170 mm).  However, much of their length consists of the enormously long horns which project from the thorax and head.  The larvae of dynastines primarily feed on the soft, decaying wood of dead trees.  The larvae increase in size greatly as they progress.  They often require months to complete their growth, undergo metamorphosis within a protective cell, and then re-enter the outside world as adult beetles.

    Cetoniines are usually characterized by brilliant coloration.  Some species are highly iridescent, or are covered with a smooth, velvet-like texture patterned with stripes or spots.  Some of the heaviest insects in the world, the Goliath beetles of tropical Africa, are members of the cetoniine subfamily.  Weights of nearly 100 grams (larval stage) have been recorded for Goliathus.  Like the dynastines, the larvae of cetoniines are usually found within decomposing trees and other accumulations of old plant material such as composting piles of fallen leaves.  A few specialized ones live within the nests of ants, where they feed on bits of organic debris within the detritus piles which the ants accumulate.