Oscarinus stuessyi
Gordon & Skelley, 2007
Oscarinus stuessyi is a in the , described by Gordon and Skelley in 2007. It belongs to the , which includes many species associated with decomposition. The species occurs in the south-central United States. Like other members of its , it likely contributes to in pasture .
Identification
The Oscarinus can be distinguished from related aphodiine genera by genitalic and external morphological characters described in the original taxonomic treatment. For definitive identification of O. stuessyi, reference to the original description (Gordon & Skelley, 2007) is required.
Habitat
Associated with cattle pastures and -based environments, based on documented of congeneric .
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas in the United States.
Diet
Has been observed to feed on cattle , based on congeneric .
Behavior
Congeneric are known to mix into soil, reducing methane emissions and recycling nutrients.
Ecological Role
Contributes to decomposition and in pasture ; may help reduce pest through competitive exclusion.
Human Relevance
Susceptible to cattle parasiticides present in treated , which can cause declines; of populations supports sustainable cattle farming practices.
Similar Taxa
- Oscarinus rusicolaCongeneric with similar ecological association with cattle ; morphological differences require expert examination.
More Details
Taxonomic note
This was described relatively recently (2007) and is part of a revised by Gordon and Skelley. The specific epithet honors botanist Tod F. Stuessy.