About Red-Shouldered Aphodius
A medium-sized dweller dung beetle that is entirely black except for reddish-brown leg joints. It is strongly attracted to lights at night and is one of the larger European Aphodius species. Larvae develop inside cattle dung.
Did You Know?
On warm summer nights, large numbers can be seen flying to artificial lights near cattle pastures.
How to Identify Red-Shouldered Aphodius
Red-Shouldered Aphodius (Aphodius rufipes) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 10-13 mm.
Red-Shouldered Aphodius Habitat
Red-Shouldered Aphodius is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Red-Shouldered Aphodius Diet and Feeding
Red-Shouldered Aphodius 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 Red-Shouldered Aphodius Found?
Red-Shouldered Aphodius can be found in Europe, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Red-Shouldered Aphodius can be found
Is Red-Shouldered Aphodius Dangerous?
Red-Shouldered Aphodius 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.
Red-Shouldered Aphodius Role in Nature
Red-Shouldered Aphodius 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 Red-Shouldered Aphodius
What does Red-Shouldered Aphodius look like?
The Red-Shouldered Aphodius typically measures 10-13 mm.
Where is Red-Shouldered Aphodius found?
The Red-Shouldered Aphodius is found in Europe and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Red-Shouldered Aphodius eat?
The Red-Shouldered Aphodius feeds on animal dung.
Is Red-Shouldered Aphodius dangerous to humans?
The Red-Shouldered Aphodius is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Red-Shouldered Aphodius?
On warm summer nights, large numbers can be seen flying to artificial lights near cattle pastures.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Red-Shouldered Aphodius (Aphodius rufipes). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/red-shouldered-aphodius
MLA:
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