πŸͺ² Beetles

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle

Catharsius pithecius

About Asian Atlas Dung Beetle

A large black tunneling dung beetle from Southeast Asia with two stout pronotal horns in males. It rapidly constructs deep tunnels beneath dung pats. Found in forests and agricultural areas near livestock.

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Did You Know?

Its tunnel systems can extend over half a meter deep, aerating compacted tropical soils.

How to Identify Asian Atlas Dung Beetle

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle (Catharsius pithecius) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 20-30 mm.

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle Habitat

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle is found in forests habitats, particularly across Southeast Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding

Asian Atlas 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 Asian Atlas Dung Beetle Found?

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle can be found in Southeast Asia, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Asian Atlas Dung Beetle can be found

Is Asian Atlas Dung Beetle Dangerous?

Asian Atlas 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.

Asian Atlas Dung Beetle Role in Nature

Asian Atlas 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

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Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Atlas Dung Beetle

What does Asian Atlas Dung Beetle look like?

The Asian Atlas Dung Beetle typically measures 20-30 mm.

Where is Asian Atlas Dung Beetle found?

The Asian Atlas Dung Beetle is found in Southeast Asia and typically inhabits forests environments.

What does Asian Atlas Dung Beetle eat?

The Asian Atlas Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.

Is Asian Atlas Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?

The Asian Atlas 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 Asian Atlas Dung Beetle?

Its tunnel systems can extend over half a meter deep, aerating compacted tropical soils.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Asian Atlas Dung Beetle (Catharsius pithecius). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/asian-atlas-dung-beetle

MLA:
"Asian Atlas Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/asian-atlas-dung-beetle.