About Australian Horned Dung Beetle
A small brown tunneling dung beetle native to Australia with minor horns in males. It was one of the first dung beetle species studied in early Australian biological control programs. It excavates tunnels beneath cow pats.
Did You Know?
Australia imported dozens of dung beetle species to deal with cattle dung that native beetles could not process.
How to Identify Australian Horned Dung Beetle
Australian Horned Dung Beetle (Onthophagus australis) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 6-10 mm.
Australian Horned Dung Beetle Habitat
Australian Horned Dung Beetle is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Australia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Australian Horned Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
Australian Horned 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 Australian Horned Dung Beetle Found?
Australian Horned Dung Beetle can be found in Australia, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Australian Horned Dung Beetle can be found
Is Australian Horned Dung Beetle Dangerous?
Australian Horned 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.
Australian Horned Dung Beetle Role in Nature
Australian Horned 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 Australian Horned Dung Beetle
What does Australian Horned Dung Beetle look like?
The Australian Horned Dung Beetle typically measures 6-10 mm.
Where is Australian Horned Dung Beetle found?
The Australian Horned Dung Beetle is found in Australia and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Australian Horned Dung Beetle eat?
The Australian Horned Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is Australian Horned Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Australian Horned 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 Australian Horned Dung Beetle?
Australia imported dozens of dung beetle species to deal with cattle dung that native beetles could not process.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Australian Horned Dung Beetle (Onthophagus australis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/australian-horned-dung-beetle
MLA:
"Australian Horned Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/australian-horned-dung-beetle.