About South American Dung Beetle
A metallic green and copper dung beetle common in Amazonian forests. Males have a distinctive curved horn on the head.
Did You Know?
This species buries dung balls at remarkable speed, often out-competing rival beetles within minutes of a fresh dropping.
How to Identify South American Dung Beetle
South American Dung Beetle (Oxysternon conspicillatum) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 15-25 mm.
South American Dung Beetle Habitat
South American Dung Beetle is found in forests habitats, particularly across Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
South American Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
South American 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 South American Dung Beetle Found?
South American Dung Beetle can be found in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where South American Dung Beetle can be found
Is South American Dung Beetle Dangerous?
South American 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.
South American Dung Beetle Role in Nature
South American 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 South American Dung Beetle
What does South American Dung Beetle look like?
The South American Dung Beetle typically measures 15-25 mm.
Where is South American Dung Beetle found?
The South American Dung Beetle is found in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, Venezuela and typically inhabits forests environments.
What does South American Dung Beetle eat?
The South American Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is South American Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The South American 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 South American Dung Beetle?
This species buries dung balls at remarkable speed, often out-competing rival beetles within minutes of a fresh dropping.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). South American Dung Beetle (Oxysternon conspicillatum). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/south-american-dung-beetle
MLA:
"South American Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/south-american-dung-beetle.