Bolbocerosoma
Bolbocerosoma
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
- Family: Geotrupidae
- Subfamily: Bolboceratinae
- Genus: Bolbocerosoma
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Bolbocerosoma: //ˌbɒlboʊˌsɛrəˈsoʊmə//
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Summary
Bolbocerosoma is a genus of earth-boring scarab beetles with about 12 described species, primarily found in North America, particularly from Texas to the east, known for their ecological role in soil health and nutrient recycling.
Physical Characteristics
Bolbocerosoma species often exhibit a robust body shape, with many species being dark or black in color; some may have distinctive markings or patterns.
Identification Tips
Identification can be aided by examining the shape and structure of the horns and sculpturing of the thorax, as well as their coloration and size.
Habitat
Bolbocerosoma species are typically found in moist soils where they can burrow to create habitats.
Distribution
The genus is primarily distributed in North America, particularly east of the Rocky Mountains, with some species reported from East Asia.
Diet
They are primarily detritivores, feeding on decomposing organic matter, including dung and decaying plant material.
Life Cycle
The life cycle of Bolbocerosoma species includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages; larvae develop within the soil or decomposing organic materials.
Reproduction
Adults lay eggs in burrows, and the larvae develop in the soil, feeding on organic matter.
Predators
Potential predators include birds, mammals, and other insectivores that feed on beetles.
Ecosystem Role
As detritivores, they play an important role in nutrient cycling and decomposition processes in their ecosystems.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection
- Pitfall traps
- Soil core sampling
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Drying
- Pinning
Evolution
The genus Bolbocerosoma belongs to the subfamily Bolboceratinae within the family Bolboceratidae, which is part of the larger scarab superfamily Geotrupidae.
Similar Taxa
- Geotrupes
- Onthophagus
- Scarabaeus
Misconceptions
Some may mistakenly associate Bolbocerosoma species with more harmful pest beetles due to their appearance.
Tags
- scarab beetles
- detritivores
- Bollboceratidae
- beetles
- insects