About Alpine Dung Beetle
A sturdy, dark dung beetle of high-altitude pastures grazed by livestock. It buries dung underground where its larvae develop.
Did You Know?
A single pair can bury a dung ball several times their own body weight in one night.
How to Identify Alpine Dung Beetle
Alpine Dung Beetle (Geotrupes alpinus) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Geotrupidae. Adults typically measure 12-18 mm.
Alpine Dung Beetle Habitat
Alpine Dung Beetle is found in grasslands habitats, particularly across Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Alpine Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
Alpine Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung. Dung-feeding insects provide vital ecosystem services by breaking down and burying waste, improving soil fertility and reducing parasite transmission.
Where Is Alpine Dung Beetle Found?
Alpine Dung Beetle can be found in Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians, where it inhabits grasslands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Alpine Dung Beetle can be found
Is Alpine Dung Beetle Dangerous?
Alpine Dung Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Alpine Dung Beetle Role in Nature
Alpine Dung Beetle plays a vital role in decomposition and nutrient recycling. By breaking down dead organic matter, it helps return nutrients to the soil, supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Alpine Dung Beetle
What does Alpine Dung Beetle look like?
The Alpine Dung Beetle typically measures 12-18 mm.
Where is Alpine Dung Beetle found?
The Alpine Dung Beetle is found in Alps, Pyrenees, Carpathians and typically inhabits grasslands environments.
What does Alpine Dung Beetle eat?
The Alpine Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is Alpine Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Alpine Dung Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Alpine Dung Beetle?
A single pair can bury a dung ball several times their own body weight in one night.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Alpine Dung Beetle (Geotrupes alpinus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/alpine-dung-beetle
MLA:
"Alpine Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/alpine-dung-beetle.