Try for Free
tab list
Picture Insect
English
arrow
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Home Application Download FAQ
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Icon about
About
Icon about
General Info
Icon about
Search Tips
Icon about
Harmful or Not
Icon about
Beneficial Effects
Icon about
Common FAQs
Icon about
Similar Insects
Icon about
Popular Insects
Thanatophilus rugosus

Thanatophilus rugosus

Thanatophilus rugosus

A species of Thanatophilus

Characterized by distinctively clubbed antennae and a preference for cooler climates, thanatophilus rugosus is often found inhabiting woodlands and grasslands. Its life cycle includes a notable transformation from a larva that consumes carrion to an adult that predominantly feeds on the larvae of carrideous insects, showcasing an ecological role in decomposing animal remains and curbing the population of other scavengers.

General Info About Thanatophilus rugosus
Instantly identify insects with a snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and risk assessment, gaining quick insights on bite assessment, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safe interaction tips, etc.
Download the App for Free
Rectangle
Attributes of Thanatophilus rugosus
Colors
Black
Yellow
Habitat
Grassland; agricultural land; woodland; scrub; parkland; domestic garden
Adult Food Sources
Carrion, decaying animal flesh, rotten meat, decaying organic substances, insect larvae occasionally found in carrion
Larva Food Source
Decaying animal tissue, carrion, decomposing organic matter
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
qrcode
Img download isoImg download android
Rectangle
Species Status of Thanatophilus rugosus
Widespread
Rectangle
Distribution Area of Thanatophilus rugosus
Palaearctic
Rectangle
Life Cycle of Thanatophilus rugosus
Egg The eggs of thanatophilus rugosus are often laid in clusters and are small, oval, and difficult to detect. This stage is solely for the protection and incubation of the developing insect, with no locomotion or feeding activity.
Larva Emerging from the eggs, larval thanatophilus rugosus are worm-like with a voracious appetite. They are typically elongated, with distinct segmentation and chewing mouthparts for feeding. Larvae gradually increase in size through a series of molts.
Pupal After sufficient growth, larval thanatophilus rugosus enter the pupa stage. In this stage, they are immobile and encased within a protective cocoon or cell. The insect undergoes significant transformation, reorganizing into the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult thanatophilus rugosus’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.
Rectangle
Predators of Thanatophilus rugosus Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, mammalian insectivores
Rectangle
Predators of Adult Thanatophilus rugosus
Birds, rodents, larger beetles
Rectangle
Interesting Facts About Thanatophilus rugosus
Thanatophilus rugosus employs a unique chemical radar to locate decomposing matter, serving a crucial role in nutrient cycling within ecosystems.
Rectangle
Scientific Classification of Thanatophilus rugosus
Tips for Finding Thanatophilus rugosus
Your ultimate guide to understanding insects
Unlock the secrets of insect life cycles, habitats, behaviors and observation tips!!
Download the App for Free
Rectangle
Youth Habitat of Thanatophilus rugosus
Rotting and Decaying Matter
Rectangle
Adult Habitat of Thanatophilus rugosus
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Savannas
Rectangle
How Can You Attract Thanatophilus rugosus
For thanatophilus rugosus, a suitable bait would be carrion or decaying organic material, as they are members of the Silphidae family that are commonly known as carrion beetles.
Rectangle
Habitat Preferences of Thanatophilus rugosus Through Different Life Stages
Eggs of thanatophilus rugosus are typically laid in soil or on grounded decomposing organic matter. Larvae prefer to develop within carrion, which provides them with a rich source of nutrition. Searching for these larvae, one should inspect decomposing animals, paying close attention to carcasses in various stages of decay. Pupal stages of thanatophilus rugosus are found in the soil nearby where the larvae fed, often within a cocoon made of debris. The adults are scavengers and are often found on carrion or near decomposing organic materials but can also be located on flowering plants for nectar. To observe adults, one might search around carcasses and animal remains, as well as inspecting the surrounding soil and vegetation.
Rectangle
When is the Best Time to Observe Thanatophilus rugosus
The best time to find adult thanatophilus rugosus would typically be from late spring to early fall, during the warmer months when they are most active. Their larvae can also be found during this time period but may extend further into the fall.
Rectangle
What is the Best Weather to Observe Thanatophilus rugosus
Adult thanatophilus rugosus are more likely to be active during warm and humid conditions which favor the process of decomposition. However, avoid searching during heavy rain as it can impact their activity and ability to locate carrion.
Rectangle
How and Where Can You Find Thanatophilus rugosus at Different Life Stages
Egg Egg clusters are typically laid near or on a food source such as dead and decaying organic matter. To find thanatophilus rugosus eggs, inspect potential food sources closely for small, elongated eggs attached to the substrate.
Larva Thanatophilus rugosus larvae can be found in and around decomposing organic material since after hatching they start feeding on it. Gently sifting through such material wearing gloves can reveal the larvae. They may also be found under a cadaver if they are involved in forensic processes.
Pupal Pupation usually occurs in the soil or within the last larval skin. To find pupating thanatophilus rugosus, carefully excavate the soil beneath and around the decay site, searching for pupae that may be buried up to several centimeters deep.
Adult Thanatophilus rugosus adults are attracted to the smell of death and decay. To find adult thanatophilus rugosus, place carrion in a concealed spot and check regularly. They are better observed during dawn or dusk when temperatures are cooler but the day is still warm.
Are Thanatophilus rugosus harmful?
Your Complete Pest Control Guide
Discover effective tips for preventing and eliminating pest infestations to keep bugs away from your home.
Download the App for Free
Beneficial Effects of Thanatophilus rugosus
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
Download the App for Free
Decomposers
Decomposers
Stage
Larvae
Items
Dead Animals, Plant Remains
Thanatophilus rugosus is a significant participant in the natural recycling process, mainly in its larval stage. These larvae voraciously consume carrion and assist in breaking down plant material. Their role is vital for nutrient cycling, enriching the soil with the byproducts of their decomposition activities. Surprisingly, these decomposers can also help forensic scientists in estimating time of death in criminal investigations.
Common Questions People Also Ask
Get Quick Insect Answers with a Snap
Snap a photo for instant insect ID and answers on bites, toxicity, pest control, behavior, habitat, and safety tips!
Download the App for Free
More Insects that are Similar to Thanatophilus rugosus
Oxelytrum discicolle
Oxelytrum discicolle

Oxelytrum discicolle is a species of carrion beetle in the family Silphidae. It is found in Central America, North America, and South America.

Read More
Arrow
Silpha obscura
Silpha obscura

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

Read More
Arrow
Sad carrion beetle
Sad carrion beetle

Silpha tristis is a species of carrion beetle in the family Silphidae. It is found in Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China) and North America. It was described in 1798 by the German entomologist Illiger.

Read More
Arrow
Silpha carinata
Silpha carinata

Adorned with nocturnal habits and aerial prowess, silpha carinata is an adept scavenger whose diet primarily consists of carrion. It plays a vital role in nutrient cycling within its ecosystem. Through a sophisticated olfactory system, this creature unerringly locates decomposing organic matter, thus ensuring the meticulous breakdown and recycling of animal remains back into the earth.

Read More
Arrow
Silpha atrata
Silpha atrata

Found traversing forest floors and meadows, silpha atrata is often seen partaking in the critical role of decomposing carrion, contributing vital nutrients back into the ecosystem. This beetle prefers the cool shelter provided by decaying matter, where it undergoes distinct metamorphosis from a larva with strong mandibles suited for a diet of carcass material, to a winged adult with taste more inclined towards vegetative matter, such as mushrooms and rotting plant material.

Read More
Arrow
Red-lined carrion beetle
Red-lined carrion beetle

The red-lined carrion beetle (Necrodes surinamensis) is a nocturnal species, often attracted to lights. It's usually found near dead things, especially deceased birds. It also consumes fly larvae, which are abundant near carrion. If threatened, these bugs can release a foul-smelling chemical at all life stages.

Read More
Arrow
Bent-leggedlpha shorexton beetle
Bent-leggedlpha shorexton beetle

Adorned with a striking pattern of orange and black, bent-leggedlpha shorexton beetle is a skilled recycler of organic matter, specializing in the decomposition of carcasses. It exhibits remarkable adaptability, with larvae preferring smaller carrion and adults capable of detecting and burying larger remains, aiding in crucial nutrient cycling within its ecosystem. Such distinctive feeding practices make it an integral part of its habitat's health and biodiversity.

Read More
Arrow
Ridged carrion beetle
Ridged carrion beetle

Known for its secretive nature, ridged carrion beetle plays a subtle yet crucial role in the ecosystem as a recycler of organic matter. Thriving in temperate woodlands, this species is remarkably adapted to locating and decomposing carrion, a testament to its specialized sensory capabilities. With a diet that changes from carnivorous larvae to more opportunistic adults, it contributes to nutrient cycling and disease control by efficiently breaking down decaying tissues.

Read More
Arrow
Other Popular Insects
Western honey bee
Western honey bee

Western honey bee(Apis mellifera) is the most common species of honeybee in the world. Among the first domesticated insects, its cultural and economic impact on humanity has been vast and far-reaching, providing honey, wax and its services as a pollinator. Western honey bee faces challenges worldwide, such as colony collapse disorder, and populations are thought to be decreasing.

Read More
Arrow
Monarch butterfly
Monarch butterfly

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is the most recognizable butterfly in North America. It is best known for its appearance, but should be better known for the fact that it has a 3000-mile migration that takes the butterfly 4 generations to complete. Their diet is also a natural deterrent for predators, as they eat milkweed, a poison that induces vomiting.

Read More
Arrow
Japanese rhinoceros beetle
Japanese rhinoceros beetle

The japanese rhinoceros beetle (Trypoxylus dichotomus) is a massive beetle about the size of the palm of a hand. It's distinguished by its long Y-shaped horn, which it uses to fight other males with. It's a nocturnal bug that feeds on sap and sweet fruits. This species is sometimes kept as a pet due to its unique appearance and simple care requirements.

Read More
Arrow
Silkworm
Silkworm

The silken threads produced by silkworm during its larval stage have been highly coveted for millennia, manifesting as a luxurious fabric in human society. Remarkably, this creature has a singular diet, feeding exclusively on the leaves of its primary host plant from which it extracts the necessary nutrients to facilitate its transition into a non-feeding, winged adult.

Read More
Arrow
Menelaus blue morpho
Menelaus blue morpho

Menelaus blue morpho (Morpho menelaus) is a gorgeous butterfly with large, royal blue wings. Linnaeus named the genus Morpho the Aphrodite-Ancient Greek goddess of love and beauty for its extreme beauty. It is native to tropical rainforests. Though many butterfly gardens now cultivate them in captivity, there are still many people who never get a chance to see them.

Read More
Arrow
Atlas moth
Atlas moth

While the atlas moth (Attacus atlas) can't tell you where to find your country on the map, it does earn its name through other means. It is one of the largest moths in the world, with a wingspan that is far larger than its body, creating an abnormal comparison. In India, their silk is gathered in a non-commercial capacity and is considered to be more durable than the domestic silkworm.

Read More
Arrow
Flying peacock spider
Flying peacock spider

Both sexes reach about 5 mm in body length. Females and immatures of both sexes are brown but have color patterns by which they can be distinguished from related species. Also, the males dance to attract females.

Read More
Arrow
Multicolored asian ladybeetle
Multicolored asian ladybeetle

Often confused for the ladybug, multicolored asian ladybeetle (Harmonia axyridis) is a separate species that, unlike the ladybug, is a household pest. It is considered particularly annoying for its habit of returning to places from which it is removed. One of the most variable species in the world, there are many different colors and patterns multicolored asian ladybeetle may display, making identification potentially difficult.

Read More
Arrow