Tumblebug

Pronunciation: /TUM-ble-bug/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Tumblebug

Plural: Tumblebugs

Definition

A type of beetle, belonging to the family Scarabaeidae, known for their habit of rolling balls of dung or other organic matter for feeding and reproduction.

Etymology

Origin uncertain, possibly from the act of tumbling or rolling dung balls.

Example

The tumblebug Kheper aegyptiorum uses its legs to roll a ball of dung to a suitable oviposition site.

Related Terms

Dung beetle
Scarabaeidae
Dung

Usage Notes

Tumblebugs are often found in areas where dung is abundant, such as pastures and fields.