Boreocanthon probus
(Germar, 1823)
A small dung beetle in the Scarabaeidae, observed rolling rodent scats in sand dune . The Boreocanthon comprises diminutive scarabs associated with small mammal droppings. This has been documented in the southwestern United States.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Boreocanthon probus: /bɔːreoʊˈkænθən ˈproʊbəs/
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Images
Habitat
Sand dune ; specifically observed in vegetated sand dune systems with mesquite/oak chaparral.
Distribution
Southwestern United States; documented from New Mexico (Chaves County).
Seasonality
Active in late spring; observed in May.
Diet
Feeds on rodent scats; has been observed rolling small mammal droppings.
Behavior
Has been observed flying low to the ground and actively rolling rodent scats, similar to other small dung beetles in the Canthon.
Ecological Role
Contributes to nutrient cycling in arid sand dune through processing of small mammal droppings.
Similar Taxa
- Canthon sp.Similar small size, of rolling , and shared in sand dune systems; distinguished by -level characters.