Phanaeus triangularis
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
- Family: Scarabaeidae
- Subfamily: Scarabaeinae
- Tribe: Phanaeini
- Genus: Phanaeus
- Species: triangularis
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phanaeus triangularis: //fəˈniːəs ˌtraɪˈæŋɡjʊlərɪs//
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Summary
Phanaeus triangularis, commonly known as the black phanaeus, is a North American dung beetle species known for its ecological role in dung decomposition and nutrient cycling in various environments.
Physical Characteristics
Phanaeus triangularis is predominantly black and is characterized by its robust body shape typical of dung beetles. The species shows variations in size and shape, particularly with respect to the subspecies.
Identification Tips
Look for a stout, black beetle with a slightly flattened body and a pronounced triangular clypeus. The surface may show some shining and reflects light.
Habitat
This species inhabits a variety of environments primarily in forested areas and grasslands where dung is available for feeding and breeding.
Distribution
Found in the eastern half of the United States, including states such as Texas, Florida, Virginia, and Kansas.
Diet
Phanaeus triangularis is a true dung beetle, primarily feeding on dung, which they also use for breeding.
Life Cycle
Like many dung beetles, Phanaeus triangularis undergoes complete metamorphosis with egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The larvae develop in dung balls buried by adults.
Reproduction
Females lay eggs in buried dung balls, which serve as a food source for the developing larvae.
Ecosystem Role
As a dung beetle, Phanaeus triangularis plays a crucial role in nutrient cycling and soil aeration, contributing to the health of the ecosystem.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collecting
- Trap methods using dung bait
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation
- Pinned specimens
Evolution
Phanaeus triangularis belongs to a lineage of dung beetles that are adapted to a life centered around dung utilization, highlighting a specialized ecological niche.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Some may confuse Phanaeus triangularis with other dung beetle species due to their similar appearance and behavior.
Tags
- beetle
- dung beetle
- North America
- Scarabaeidae
- Phanaeus