About Two-Horned Oxysternon
A large, dark metallic green tunneling dung beetle with two prominent pronotal projections in males. The clypeus has a distinctive upturned anterior margin. It is a powerful tunneler in Amazonian rainforests.
Did You Know?
This beetle is so efficient at burying dung that it plays a measurable role in reducing livestock parasite transmission.
How to Identify Two-Horned Oxysternon
Two-Horned Oxysternon (Oxysternon durum) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 20-28 mm.
Two-Horned Oxysternon Habitat
Two-Horned Oxysternon is found in forests habitats, particularly across South America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Two-Horned Oxysternon Diet and Feeding
Two-Horned Oxysternon 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 Two-Horned Oxysternon Found?
Two-Horned Oxysternon can be found in South America, where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Two-Horned Oxysternon can be found
Is Two-Horned Oxysternon Dangerous?
Two-Horned Oxysternon 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.
Two-Horned Oxysternon Role in Nature
Two-Horned Oxysternon 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 Two-Horned Oxysternon
What does Two-Horned Oxysternon look like?
The Two-Horned Oxysternon typically measures 20-28 mm.
Where is Two-Horned Oxysternon found?
The Two-Horned Oxysternon is found in South America and typically inhabits forests environments.
What does Two-Horned Oxysternon eat?
The Two-Horned Oxysternon feeds on animal dung.
Is Two-Horned Oxysternon dangerous to humans?
The Two-Horned Oxysternon is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Two-Horned Oxysternon?
This beetle is so efficient at burying dung that it plays a measurable role in reducing livestock parasite transmission.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Two-Horned Oxysternon (Oxysternon durum). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/two-horned-oxysternon
MLA:
"Two-Horned Oxysternon." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/two-horned-oxysternon.