Coprophilus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coprophilus: /kɔˈprɔfɪləs/

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Summary

Coprophilus is a genus of dung-loving beetles commonly found in temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, playing a key role in the decomposition of organic matter.

Physical Characteristics

Small beetles with elongated bodies, often dark in color, exhibiting a shiny surface that may vary among species.

Identification Tips

Best identified by their habitat near dung or decomposing organic materials and their characteristic elongated body shape.

Habitat

Typically found in rotting plants and woods, compost, under leaf litter, and near herbivore dung.

Distribution

Predominantly in the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. In North America, two native species found in the northeastern US and adjacent Canada, and in the Pacific Northwest.

Diet

Primarily detritivores, feeding on decomposing organic material, including dung.

Life Cycle

Life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, typical of beetles.

Reproduction

Reproduction involves laying eggs in locations rich in organic matter for larval development.

Predators

Predators may include other beetles and natural enemies like birds and small mammals.

Ecosystem Role

Play an important role in decomposition and nutrient recycling by breaking down organic matter.

Collecting Methods

• Pitfall traps
• Hand collecting near dung or compost
• Light trapping in appropriate habitats

Preservation Methods

• Ethanol preservation
• Drying and pinning for museum specimens

Similar Taxa

• Staphylinidae
• Bledius
• Creophilus

Misconceptions

Often confused with other beetles, but their association with dung is a distinctive feature.

Tags

• beetles
• dung
• decomposers
• ecosystem