About Saphirinus Dung Beetle
A stunning metallic sapphire-blue tunneling dung beetle with brilliant iridescence. Males have a prominent horn. It is one of the most beautifully colored dung beetles in the Neotropics and an important decomposer.
Did You Know?
The sapphire-blue metallic sheen is so intense that museum specimens retain their color for over a century.
How to Identify Saphirinus Dung Beetle
Saphirinus Dung Beetle (Coprophanaeus saphirinus) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 18-30 mm.
Saphirinus Dung Beetle Habitat
Saphirinus Dung Beetle is found in forests habitats, particularly across South America (Brazil, Argentina). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Saphirinus Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
Saphirinus 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 Saphirinus Dung Beetle Found?
Saphirinus Dung Beetle can be found in South America (Brazil, Argentina), where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Saphirinus Dung Beetle can be found
Is Saphirinus Dung Beetle Dangerous?
Saphirinus 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.
Saphirinus Dung Beetle Role in Nature
Saphirinus 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 Saphirinus Dung Beetle
What does Saphirinus Dung Beetle look like?
The Saphirinus Dung Beetle typically measures 18-30 mm.
Where is Saphirinus Dung Beetle found?
The Saphirinus Dung Beetle is found in South America (Brazil, Argentina) and typically inhabits forests environments.
What does Saphirinus Dung Beetle eat?
The Saphirinus Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is Saphirinus Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Saphirinus 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 Saphirinus Dung Beetle?
The sapphire-blue metallic sheen is so intense that museum specimens retain their color for over a century.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Saphirinus Dung Beetle (Coprophanaeus saphirinus). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/saphirinus-dung-beetle
MLA:
"Saphirinus Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/saphirinus-dung-beetle.