Germarostes aphodioides
(Illiger, 1800)
pill scarab beetle
Germarostes aphodioides is a pill scarab beetle in the Hybosoridae, first described by Illiger in 1800. The is recognized for its ability to conglobate, or roll into a ball. Two are currently recognized: the nominate form and G. a. prionomus.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Germarostes aphodioides: /d͡ʒərˈmɑroʊstiːz əˌfoʊdiˈɔɪdiːz/
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Images
Distribution
North America, with confirmed records from Ontario, Canada.
Behavior
Has been observed to conglobate (roll into a ball) when disturbed, a defensive characteristic of pill scarab beetles.