About Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle
A small to medium, tan to brown tunneling dung beetle originally from Africa, now among the most widely distributed dung beetles globally. Males have two short conical horns. It is an extremely efficient cattle dung processor.
Did You Know?
This species has been introduced to more countries than any other dung beetle and is now found on every inhabited continent.
How to Identify Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle
Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle (Digitonthophagus gazella) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 7-14 mm.
Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle Habitat
Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Africa, introduced globally to tropical regions. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
Digitonthophagus 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 Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle Found?
Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle can be found in Africa, introduced globally to tropical regions, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle can be found
Is Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle Dangerous?
Digitonthophagus 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.
Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle Role in Nature
Digitonthophagus 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 Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle
What does Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle look like?
The Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle typically measures 7-14 mm.
Where is Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle found?
The Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle is found in Africa, introduced globally to tropical regions and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle eat?
The Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Digitonthophagus 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 Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle?
This species has been introduced to more countries than any other dung beetle and is now found on every inhabited continent.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle (Digitonthophagus gazella). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/digitonthophagus-dung-beetle
MLA:
"Digitonthophagus Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/digitonthophagus-dung-beetle.