A small coprophagous scarab beetle found across Europe, known for its critical role in decomposing animal feces and recycling nutrients in terrestrial ecosystems.
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Grasslands, pastures, agricultural lands, and meadows with high livestock presence, primarily in temperate regions of Europe
Ecological Role
Essential decomposer that breaks down animal dung, improving soil fertility, reducing parasitic larvae, and supporting nutrient cycling in ecosystems
Morphology
SKIN COATDark brown to black external cuticle, smooth and slightly glossy surface
LIMBS WINGSStrong, compact legs with specialized structures for digging and moving through soil and dung, capable of short flight
HEAD SENSORYCompact head with strong mandibles for cutting and processing organic material, well-developed antennae for environmental sensing
BODY STRUCTURESmall oval-shaped beetle, typically 6-8 mm in length, with robust exoskeleton adapted for digging and moving through organic matter
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: S.E. Thorpe
