Ataenius stephani

As a member of the genus Ataenius, this species likely exhibits the compact, oval body form and small size (typically under 10 mm) characteristic of the group. Definitive identification requires examination of male genitalia and other subtle morphological features described in the original species description. It may be distinguished from other Ataenius species by geographic range and specific structural details of the pronotum and elytra.

Found in arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and western Mexico. Specific microhabitat preferences are not well documented, but related species in Aphodiinae are often associated with dry, sandy, or rocky soils near dung deposits or decaying plant material.

Documented from Arizona, USA, and several Mexican states including Baja California, Jalisco, Nayarit, Sinaloa, and Sonora. The distribution spans the Nearctic and Neotropical realms in the region bordering the Gulf of California and Pacific coastal lowlands.

As an aphodiine dung beetle, it likely contributes to nutrient cycling and soil aeration through burial of dung and organic debris. The specific ecological functions of this species have not been studied.

• Other Ataenius speciesMany Ataenius species share similar small size, dark coloration, and compact body form. Accurate identification requires specialist examination of genitalia and other fine structural characters.

• dung beetle
• aphodiine
• scarab
• North America
• desert fauna

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life