Rainbow Scarab
Phanaeus vindex
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Scarabaeoidea
- Family: Scarabaeidae
- Subfamily: Scarabaeinae
- Tribe: Phanaeini
- Genus: Phanaeus
- Species: vindex
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Phanaeus vindex: /fəˈniːəs ˈvɪndɛks/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Images
Summary
Phanaeus vindex, commonly known as the rainbow scarab, is a North American dung beetle notable for its colorful appearance. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by recycling nutrients through their feeding on dung. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism and various nesting and reproductive behaviors that adapt to environmental conditions.
Physical Characteristics
Adults range from approximately 11-22 millimeters (0.4-0.9 inches) in length. Pronotum is coppery red and elytra are green. Males have a large horn on their heads, while females have slightly less vibrant shells and lack horns. Male abdomens are raised above the elytra, while females’ do not. The abdomen is distinctly colored in both sexes. Males can be major morphs (large horns and bodies) or minor morphs (short horns and smaller bodies).
Identification Tips
Major males are easier to differentiate than minor males and females due to larger horns and distinct coloration.
Habitat
Range from Sonoran Desert to subtropical Florida to New England. Occupy broad ecological parameters.
Distribution
Eastern and central United States (Florida and New England to Arizona and Wyoming) and northern Mexico. Most widespread species of Phanaeus in the United States.
Diet
Exclusively feeds on dung, preferring feces from omnivores like pigs and cows. They also consume wild animal feces if available, and are least attracted to dung from carnivorous animals.
Life Cycle
Undergoes a larval stage followed by pupation before reaching adulthood. The entire lifecycle spans 2 to 6 months, with adults having a lifespan of less than one year.
Reproduction
Females deposit eggs in pear-shaped brood balls made from dung. Each brood ball is coated with soil for protection. Females can undergo multiple reproductive events with different males throughout their life.
Ecosystem Role
As a dung beetle, P. vindex plays an important role in nutrient cycling and soil aeration through their burrowing and feeding habits.
Health Concerns
Exposed to parasites, such as Physocephalus sexalatus, which can impact their feeding and reproductive success.
Tags
- Phanaeus vindex
- rainbow scarab
- dung beetle
- Scarabaeidae
- North America