Phanaeus triangularis triangularis

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
Family: Scarabaeidae
Subfamily: Scarabaeinae
Tribe: Phanaeini
Genus: Phanaeus
Species: triangularis
Subspecies: triangularis

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Phanaeus triangularis triangularis: /fəˈniːəs traɪˌæŋɡjʊˈlɛərɪs traɪˌæŋɡjʊˈlɛərɪs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Phanaeus triangularis ssp. texensis by jeffjackson. Used under a CC0 license.

Summary

Phanaeus triangularis triangularis, commonly known as the black phanaeus, is a species of true dung beetle found predominantly in the eastern United States, notable for its shiny black to coppery red coloration and granular pronotum.

Physical Characteristics

Dorsum moderately shiny black to dull coppery red, with sides of pronotum finely granulate. Elytra have fine, minutely punctate striae that are deeply impressed basally, with convex and evenly shiny intervals.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive coloration and the structure of the pronotum and elytra. The size ranges from 12 to 21 mm.

Habitat

Generally found in flood plain forests.

Distribution

Eastern half of the United States, specifically in TX, FL, VA, KS, and OH.

Diet

Primarily feeds on dung as a true dung beetle.

Life Cycle

Details about life cycle not included.

Reproduction

Details about reproductive behavior not included.

Predators

Details about predators not included.

Ecosystem Role

As a dung beetle, plays a critical role in nutrient recycling and soil aeration.

Economic Impact

Details about economic impact not included.

Cultural Significance

Details about cultural significance not included.

Evolution

Three subspecies of Phanaeus triangularis are recognized, though P. t. niger is often considered a synonym of triangularis while P. t. texensis is often considered a separate species.