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Brown dung beetle

Brown dung beetle

Digitonthophagus gazella

A species of Digitonthophagus, Also known as Gazelle dung beetle, Gazella dung beetle

The brown dung beetle( Digitonthophagus gazella) has an unusual food preference: animal dungs. It is native to Africa and India and has been introduced to different parts of the world in order to help remove cattle feces from pastures. In general, females lay eggs in the dung and then larvae grow inside of it and feed on the solid matter surrounding them until they mature.

General Info About Brown dung beetle
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Attributes of Brown dung beetle
Colors
Brown
Black
Habitat
hot area; arid and semi-arid area; forest; swamp; bamboo
Adult Food Sources
Dung, decayng organic matter, rotting fruits, rotting vegetables, compost
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Brown dung beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
The Brown dung beetle feeds on plants, usually without causing significant harm. However, it's important to take the situation seriously if their numbers begin to increase significantly.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Brown dung beetle
Its native distribution is Afro-Asian. It has been introduced to many other parts of the world.
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Distribution Area of Brown dung beetle
North America, Central, South America, Australia, Pacific
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Predators of Brown dung beetle Larvae
Ants, beetles, birds, rodents
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Predators of Adult Brown dung beetle
Birds, small mammals, reptiles, larger insects
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Interesting Facts About Brown dung beetle
Brown dung beetle can navigate using the Milky Way, utilizing celestial cues for orientation during nighttime movement.
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Scientific Classification of Brown dung beetle
Tips for Finding Brown dung beetle
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Youth Habitat of Brown dung beetle
Grasslands and Prairies, Savannas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Brown dung beetle
Grasslands and Prairies, Savannas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Brown dung beetle
The best time to find brown dung beetle is usually during their most active periods, which are often during the warmer times of the day and in warmer seasons.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Brown dung beetle
Dry and warm conditions tend to be more suitable for finding brown dung beetle as these creatures thrive in such environments.
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How and Where Can You Find Brown dung beetle at Different Life Stages
Egg Brown dung beetle eggs are laid in or near dung piles. To find them, search around fresh dung, especially from herbivores, without disturbing the dung structure.
Larva Brown dung beetle larvae are found burrowed in dung or decomposing matter. Locate them by sifting through manure heaps or compost with care.
Pupal Brown dung beetle pupae develop within a protective casing in the soil beneath dung. Look for them by carefully digging in the ground beneath or around where dung was previously situated.
Adult Adult brown dung beetle are attracted to fresh dung and are active flyers. Spot them by observing the vicinity of dung piles or by setting up traps with dung as bait during optimal weather conditions.
Are Brown dung beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Brown dung beetle
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Decomposers
Decomposers
Stage
Adults
Larvae
Brown dung beetle plays a crucial role in nutrient recycling by breaking down animal feces during its larvae and adult stages. Its contributions enhance soil fertility and promote healthy plant growth. Interestingly, brown dung beetle is also known for its unique behavior of rolling dung into balls as a food source and breeding chamber.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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