About Variable Dung Beetle
A small, highly variable tunneling dung beetle found across Europe. Coloration ranges from pale brown to nearly black with various mottled patterns. Males have a small bent horn, giving the species its name.
Did You Know?
The extreme color variation in this species once led taxonomists to describe multiple color forms as separate species.
How to Identify Variable Dung Beetle
Variable Dung Beetle (Onthophagus fracticornis) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 5-9 mm.
Variable Dung Beetle Habitat
Variable Dung Beetle is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe, Western Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Variable Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
Variable 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 Variable Dung Beetle Found?
Variable Dung Beetle can be found in Europe, Western Asia, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Variable Dung Beetle can be found
Is Variable Dung Beetle Dangerous?
Variable 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.
Variable Dung Beetle Role in Nature
Variable 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 Variable Dung Beetle
What does Variable Dung Beetle look like?
The Variable Dung Beetle typically measures 5-9 mm.
Where is Variable Dung Beetle found?
The Variable Dung Beetle is found in Europe, Western Asia and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Variable Dung Beetle eat?
The Variable Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is Variable Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Variable 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 Variable Dung Beetle?
The extreme color variation in this species once led taxonomists to describe multiple color forms as separate species.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Variable Dung Beetle (Onthophagus fracticornis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/variable-dung-beetle
MLA:
"Variable Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/variable-dung-beetle.