Peltotrupes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Peltotrupes: /ˌpɛl.toʊˈtruː.piːz/

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Summary

Peltotrupes is a genus of earth-boring scarab beetles, including two species endemic to Florida, active from fall to spring and attracted to fermenting materials.

Physical Characteristics

Earth-boring scarab beetles with robust bodies.

Identification Tips

Look for large size and robust build typical of scarab beetles; primarily identified via their behavior of burrowing and association with sandy habitats.

Habitat

Sand scrub areas in Florida.

Distribution

Endemic to Florida, United States.

Diet

Adults are attracted to fermenting materials; specific dietary preferences are not detailed but likely include decaying organic matter.

Life Cycle

Undergo a typical beetle life cycle including egg, larval, pupal stages, and adult.

Reproduction

Details about the reproduction methods specific to Peltotrupes are not provided in the source; typically involves laying eggs in fertile soil or decayed matter.

Conservation Status

P. profundus is a species of concern; P. youngi is considered rare.

Ecosystem Role

As detritivores, they likely play a role in decomposition and soil aeration through burrowing.

Collecting Methods

• Use of fermenting malt traps to attract adults.

Preservation Methods

• Standard entomological preservation methods not specified; likely involves pinning or storing in alcohol.

Similar Taxa

• Other earth-boring scarab beetles in the Geotrupidae family.

Tags

• Peltotrupes
• Geotrupidae
• beetles
• endemic
• Florida
• scarabs