Dung beetle

Dung beetle is a common name for beetles that feed on and use animal dung.

Dung beetle is a common name for beetles that feed on and use animal dung. Most belong to the scarab beetle family, and they are found on every continent except Antarctica. These beetles play important ecological roles in nutrient recycling and soil aeration.

Taxonomy

Dung beetle is not a single species but a common name used for beetles that live in or feed on dung. Most are in the scarab family Scarabaeidae, especially the subfamily Scarabaeinae, though the term is sometimes used more broadly.

Behaviour and feeding

Dung beetles use dung as food, a place to lay eggs, or material to shape and bury. Common behavioural groups include rollers, tunnelers, and dwellers.

Distribution and habitat

Dung beetles are found worldwide except Antarctica. They inhabit many environments, including grasslands, forests, deserts, and farmland.

Ecological role

Dung beetles help decompose animal waste, recycle nutrients, aerate soil, and reduce breeding sites for flies and other pests. These activities can improve pasture quality and plant growth.

In Canada

Dung beetles occur in Canada, where they are part of soil and pasture ecosystems and help recycle animal waste in agricultural and natural areas.