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Silpha obscura

Silpha obscura

Silpha obscura

A species of Silpha

The Flachstreifige Aaskäfer (Silpha obscura) is a beetle from the family of the Aaskäfer (Silphidae).

General Info About Silpha obscura
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Attributes of Silpha obscura
Colors
Black
Habitat
soil
Adult Food Sources
Carrion, dead insects, plant material, rotten fruit, fungi
Larva Food Source
Carrion, dead plant materials, decaying organic matter
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Silpha obscura is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Silpha obscura
Egg The eggs of silpha obscura are typically laid in the soil or decaying matter. They are small, elongated, and have a characteristic color that blends with the environment to avoid predation.
Larva Upon hatching, the larvae of silpha obscura are worm-like, with a soft exoskeleton. They grow progressively larger through a series of molts, are usually voracious feeders, and can vary in color.
Pupal After fully developing, the larva encases itself in a pupal chamber. During this immobile stage, silpha obscura undergoes significant transformation, reorganizing its body structure into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult silpha obscura's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Silpha obscura
1.3 - 1.7 cm
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Predators of Silpha obscura Larvae
Birds, small mammals, carnivorous insects
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Predators of Adult Silpha obscura
Birds, small mammals, reptiles, carnivorous insects
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Interesting Facts About Silpha obscura
Silpha obscura possess specialized enzymes in their saliva that can break down the tough keratin in hair and feathers.
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Scientific Classification of Silpha obscura
Tips for Finding Silpha obscura
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Youth Habitat of Silpha obscura
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Habitat Preferences of Silpha obscura Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of silpha obscura are typically laid in soil or leaf litter near a food source, such as decaying organic matter. Larvae, upon hatching, remain in the vicinity of abundant food, often under carcasses or within decaying plant matter. Pupae tend to be in the same general area or within the soil where there is less disturbance. To locate these stages, one would search around decomposing organic materials or dig through soil and leaf litter, especially in wooded or grassland habitats. Adult silpha obscura are often found on or near carrion, decaying fungi, or moist vegetation, where they feed and mate, making these the prime locations to look for them.
Are Silpha obscura harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Silpha obscura
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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
Silpha obscura plays a crucial role in ecosystems by breaking down dead organic matter. During both the larval and adult stages, it feeds on carrion and decaying plant material. This activity recycles nutrients back into the soil, supporting plant growth and maintaining ecological balance. The unique chemistry in their digestive system allows them to efficiently process decomposed matter, making them unsung heroes in nutrient cycling.
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