Dynastes tityus is closely related to the enormous Hercules beetle (Dynastes hercules) of Central America, which can reach lengths of 17 cm (6.5 inches). D. tityus measures some 6 cm in length and occurs over a wide area of the eastern United States, ranging as far north as New Jersey, and as far west as Texas.  The adult beetles have a distinctive odor, possibly defensive, or perhaps pheromonal.  The thoracic horn of the male in this species often bears a small prong on either side of its base.  The female, like that of other rhinoceros beetle species, is hornless.  The larvae develop in the compost of dead trees, particularly deciduous hardwoods.