The Dynastinae are among the largest of beetles, reaching more than 15 centimetres (6 inches) in length, but are completely harmless to humans because they cannot bite or sting.

[4] Common names of the Dynastinae refer to the characteristic horns borne only by the males of most species in the group.

If rhinoceros beetles are disturbed, some can release very loud, hissing squeaks created by rubbing their abdomens against the ends of their wing covers.

Male Japanese rhinoceros beetles (Allomyrina dichotoma) fight to dominate sap sites.

[8] Usually though, beetle population densities are not as high as in some other pest insects, and they typically prefer food trees which are already sick or dying from some other cause.

Some species' larvae, however, will attack healthy trees or even root vegetables, and when they occur in large numbers, can cause economically significant damage.

Rhinoceros beetles have become popular pets in parts of Asia,[9] due to being relatively clean, easy to maintain, and safe to handle.

[11] Dr. MinJun Kim, leading a team of engineers in National Science Foundation-funded research, examined the function and aerodynamics of Allomyrina dichotoma with the help of researchers in Drexel University's Mechanical Engineering Department and in collaboration with Konkuk University in South Korea.