Coprophilini
Coprophilini
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Staphylinoidea
- Family: Staphylinidae
- Subfamily: Oxytelinae
- Tribe: Coprophilini
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coprophilini: /ˌkɒprəˈfɪlɪnaɪ/
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Images
Summary
The tribe Coprophilini consists of dung-loving beetles belonging to the genus Coprophilus, primarily found in temperate regions, where they contribute to the decomposition of organic matter.
Physical Characteristics
Small to medium-sized beetles, usually dark in color, bodies elongated and flattened.
Identification Tips
Look for beetles associated with decaying organic matter or dung.
Habitat
Temperate regions, often found in rotting plants, compost, leaf litter, and near herbivore dung.
Distribution
Primarily in the Northern Hemisphere; additional genera present in Southern South America and Australasia.
Diet
Detritivorous; feeds on decaying plant material and organic matter, particularly associated with dung.
Life Cycle
Life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, typically occurring in decaying matter.
Reproduction
Mating occurs near or on dung or decaying matter; females lay eggs in suitable habitats.
Predators
Predators may include other beetles, birds, and various insects that feed on small arthropods.
Ecosystem Role
Important decomposers, aiding in the breakdown of organic matter and nutrient recycling.
Collecting Methods
- Pitfall traps
- Hand collection in habitats with dung and decaying matter
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol
- Pinning in insect collection boxes
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
Not all dung-associated beetles are harmful; many play critical roles in decomposition.
Tags
- beetles
- decomposition
- Coprophilus
- dung-loving
- ecosystem