About Sylvicola Tunneler
A medium-sized, black tunneling dung beetle with deep longitudinal furrows on the elytra. Males have a short, broad cephalic horn. It is common in South American pastures and is an important dung recycler in cattle-farming regions.
Did You Know?
This species thrives in disturbed agricultural landscapes, unlike many dung beetles that require intact forest.
How to Identify Sylvicola Tunneler
Sylvicola Tunneler (Ontherus sulcator) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 12-18 mm.
Sylvicola Tunneler Habitat
Sylvicola Tunneler is found in grasslands habitats, particularly across South America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Sylvicola Tunneler Diet and Feeding
Sylvicola Tunneler 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 Sylvicola Tunneler Found?
Sylvicola Tunneler can be found in South America, where it inhabits grasslands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Sylvicola Tunneler can be found
Is Sylvicola Tunneler Dangerous?
Sylvicola Tunneler 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.
Sylvicola Tunneler Role in Nature
Sylvicola Tunneler 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 Sylvicola Tunneler
What does Sylvicola Tunneler look like?
The Sylvicola Tunneler typically measures 12-18 mm.
Where is Sylvicola Tunneler found?
The Sylvicola Tunneler is found in South America and typically inhabits grasslands environments.
What does Sylvicola Tunneler eat?
The Sylvicola Tunneler feeds on animal dung.
Is Sylvicola Tunneler dangerous to humans?
The Sylvicola Tunneler is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Sylvicola Tunneler?
This species thrives in disturbed agricultural landscapes, unlike many dung beetles that require intact forest.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Sylvicola Tunneler (Ontherus sulcator). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/sylvicola-tunneler
MLA:
"Sylvicola Tunneler." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/sylvicola-tunneler.