Ataenius desertus
Horn, 1871
Ataenius desertus is a small aphodiine dung beetle described by Horn in 1871. As a member of the Ataenius, it belongs to a group commonly known as aphodiine dung beetles, which are typically associated with decomposing organic matter. The occurs in arid and semi-arid regions of southwestern North America and adjacent Mexico.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ataenius desertus: /əˈtiːniəs dɪˈzɜːrtəs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Distribution
Documented from southwestern United States (Arizona, California, Kansas, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Utah) and Mexico (Baja California Sur, Durango, Sonora). Records span the Nearctic and Neotropical regions.
More Details
Taxonomic note
The epithet 'desertus' likely refers to its occurrence in desert or arid environments, consistent with its southwestern North American distribution.