Sandhills Earth Boring Scarab Beetle

Mycotrupes retusus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
Family: Geotrupidae
Subfamily: Geotrupinae
Genus: Mycotrupes
Species: retusus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Mycotrupes retusus: /ˌmaɪkoʊˈtruːpiːz rɪˈtuːsəs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Summary

Mycotrupes retusus, also known as the Sandhills Earth Boring Scarab Beetle, is a South Carolina endemic species of beetle that plays a role in decomposing organic materials.

Physical Characteristics

Dull coloration, typical of the Geotrupidae family.

Identification Tips

Look for the rounded body shape and characteristics of earth-boring beetles; typically darker and more subdued in color.

Habitat

Found predominantly in the Sandhills regions of South Carolina.

Distribution

Endemic to South Carolina, specifically in the Sandhills.

Diet

Detritus and decaying leaves.

Life Cycle

Inhabit soil where they lead a largely subterranean life; exact details on larval stages are less documented.

Reproduction

Reproductive habits not specified; typical of beetles may include laying eggs in detritus.

Ecosystem Role

Helps in the decomposition process of organic materials and soil aeration.

Collecting Methods

Picking from leaf litter
Traps using bait such as decomposing organic matter

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Drying
Using ethanol