Phanaeini
Phanaeini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
- Family: Scarabaeidae
- Subfamily: Scarabaeinae
- Tribe: Phanaeini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phanaeini: //fəˈniːəˌnaɪnaɪ//
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Summary
Phanaeini is a tribe of dung beetles belonging to the family Scarabaeidae, encompassing around 200 species across 12 genera. They are predominantly found in the Americas, especially in the Neotropics, where they contribute significantly to ecological processes.
Physical Characteristics
Medium-sized to large beetles, often with bright metallic colors, and frequently featuring horns on their heads (especially in males, less frequently in females).
Identification Tips
Look for prominent horns on males, and observe coloration which is typically metallic.
Habitat
Primarily found in neotropical regions, they often inhabit areas with dung or decaying matter.
Distribution
Native to the Americas, with the highest species richness in the Neotropics.
Diet
Mostly coprophagous (dung-feeding) or necrophagous (feeding on decaying matter), with some genera potentially being myrmecophilous (associated with ants).
Ecosystem Role
As dung beetles, they play crucial roles in nutrient recycling, soil aeration, and seed dispersal.
Tags
- dung beetles
- Phanaeini
- Scarabaeidae
- neotropical
- coprophagous