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Dung beetle

Aug. 30, 2026

A report published in Ecology and Evolution said that dung beetles are vulnerable to a previously unforeseen risk like dogs.

About Dung beetle:

  • It scientifically known as the Scarabaeidae family within the Animal Kingdom’s order
  • Appearance:
    • They are robust, compact insects known for their hard, protective exoskeletons and strong, clawed legs adapted for digging and rolling dung.
    • They vary in color, with some species displaying dull, black or brown hues, while others exhibit metallic shades of blue, green, or copper.
  • Habitat: They live in habitats that range from desert to forest.
  • Distribution: Dung beetles are found worldwide, on every continent except Antarctica.
  • Diet: They feed on the feces of large herbivores during both their larval and adult stages. 
  • Working: Dung beetles span three main lifestyles: rollers (ball-makers), tunnelers (bury beneath), and dwellers (live in the pat).
  • Several dung beetles navigate using celestial cues; some use the Milky Way as an orientation reference during straight-line rolling.
  • Many scarabs have fan-like (lamellate) antennae that open to sample odors-useful for locating fresh dung fast.
  • Ecological Role: They play major ecological roles in nutrient cycling, soil aeration, seed dispersal, and parasite/flies suppression.

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