Watanabe Dung Beetle

About Watanabe Dung Beetle

A small, brown tunneling dung beetle from Southeast Asian forests with distinctively elongated curved horns in major males. It is a forest-interior species sensitive to habitat disturbance. Found beneath dung of wild mammals.

How to Identify Watanabe Dung Beetle

Watanabe Dung Beetle (Onthophagus watanabei) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 6-10 mm.

Watanabe Dung Beetle Habitat

Watanabe Dung Beetle is found in forests habitats, particularly across Southeast Asia (Borneo, Sumatra). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Watanabe Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding

Watanabe 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 Watanabe Dung Beetle Found?

Watanabe Dung Beetle can be found in Southeast Asia (Borneo, Sumatra), where it inhabits forests environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Is Watanabe Dung Beetle Dangerous?

Watanabe 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.

Watanabe Dung Beetle Role in Nature

Watanabe 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