Aidophus skelleyi
Harpootlian & Gordon, 2001
Aidophus skelleyi is a small dung beetle in the Aphodiinae, described in 2001 from Florida. As a member of the Aidophus, it belongs to a group of aphodiines characterized by reduced tarsal claws. The species is known only from the southeastern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Aidophus skelleyi: //ˈaɪdoʊfəs ˈskɛliˌaɪ//
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Identification
Members of Aidophus are distinguished from other Aphodiinae by their didactylous , possessing only two claws on each tarsus rather than the typical three. Specific identification of A. skelleyi requires examination of male genitalia and comparison with the only other described in the , A. granulatus.
Distribution
Recorded from Florida, USA. The occurs in the within the southeastern United States.
Ecological Role
As an aphodiine dung beetle, it likely contributes to nutrient cycling and soil aeration through burial activities, though specific ecological functions for this have not been documented.
Similar Taxa
- Aidophus granulatusThe only other described in the Aidophus; A. skelleyi differs in genitalic structure and was described from Florida whereas A. granulatus has a broader distribution.