Aphodiine Dung Beetles
Aphodiinae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
- Family: Scarabaeidae
- Subfamily: Aphodiinae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aphodiinae: /ˌæfoʊdiˈaɪniː/
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Summary
Aphodiinae, commonly known as small dung beetles, are a diverse subfamily of scarab beetles found worldwide. They exhibit a variety of life strategies and feeding habits, primarily associated with dung and decaying matter, contributing significantly to ecosystem processes.
Physical Characteristics
Small scarab beetles, most less than 8 mm long. Many have small mandibles that are covered by a widened clypeus. The feet are clawed.
Identification Tips
Look for small size and reduced mandibles covered by a widened clypeus. Identification can vary by tribe and species.
Habitat
Diverse habitat types including temperate rainforests, high-elevation Andean grassland, Patagonian steppe, coastal sand dunes, and subantarctic beech forest.
Distribution
Found worldwide and throughout North America.
Diet
Many feed on dung; some are detritivores, psammophiles, saprophages, inquilines, or potentially predatory. Adults suspected to feed primarily on bacteria or yeast-rich fluids in dung or decaying matter.
Ecosystem Role
Aphodiinae play a significant role in dung decomposition, nutrient recycling, and soil aeration.
Misconceptions
Although many are dung beetles, not all species in this subfamily are dung feeders; some are detritivores or live in ant/termite nests.
Tags
- Aphodiinae
- scarab beetles
- dung beetles
- insects
- entomology