Nimbus contaminatus
This record describes Nimbus contaminatus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Pronotum fringed with hairs, a bit like false eye-lashes stuck along the rim. This species has a regular pattern of black streaks on the elytra. In contrast, Melinopterus prodromus has quite plain elytra with no black dashes only the dark area of the wings can be seen through the elytra. Found in various types of dung, particularly horse dung. Mainly an autumnal species - found between August and October. It is common and widespread in Britain and often abundant, although there seem to be few records from the south west of England.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Scarabaeidae
- Genus
- Nimbus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found in various types of dung, particularly horse dung.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly an autumnal species - found between August and October.
Additional species information
Recorded status
It is common and widespread in Britain and often abundant, although there seem to be few records from the south west of England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Nimbus contaminatus. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Nimbus contaminatus (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Nimbus contaminatus
What is Nimbus contaminatus?
Nimbus contaminatus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Nimbus contaminatus found?
Habitat: Found in various types of dung, particularly horse dung.
When is Nimbus contaminatus active?
Nimbus contaminatus: seasonal activity - Mainly an autumnal species - found between August and October..