Dung beetle
- Pronunciation
- /ˈdʌŋ ˌbiːtl/
- Category
- Ecology
- Singular
- Dung beetle
- Plural
- Dung beetles
Definition
A group of beetles that feed on and disperse dung, playing a crucial role in nutrient cycling and ecosystem health.
Etymology
The term combines 'dung' (Middle English: dung, from Old English dung, meaning excrement) and 'beetle' (Old English bitela, meaning biter).
Example
Dung beetles are essential for breaking down dung and returning nutrients to the soil.
Synonyms
- Scarabaeinae
- Tumblebugs
Related Terms
- Dung
- Decomposition
- Ecosystem
- Nutrient cycling
- Coprophagy
Usage Notes
Dung beetles are often categorized based on their dung-rolling behavior and the type of dung they utilize.