Aphodius pedellus
This record describes Aphodius pedellus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
One of several similar dung beetles with orangey elytra and black head and pronotum. Found around dung and in pastures used by cattle. Throughout the year peaking April to October. British status is unclear as the species has been split and it is difficult to assign previous records between Aphodius pedellus and Aphodius fimetarius.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Aphodiinae
- Tribe
- Aphodiini
- Genus
- Aphodius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Found around dung and in pastures used by cattle.
Seasonal Activity
Throughout the year peaking April to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Feeds on herbivorous dung.
Additional species information
Recorded status
British status is unclear as the species has been split and it is difficult to assign previous records between Aphodius pedellus and Aphodius fimetarius.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aphodius pedellus. 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 Aphodius pedellus (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Aphodius pedellus
What is Aphodius pedellus?
Aphodius pedellus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Aphodius pedellus found?
Habitat: Found around dung and in pastures used by cattle.
When is Aphodius pedellus active?
Aphodius pedellus: seasonal activity - Throughout the year peaking April to October..
What is the life cycle of a Aphodius pedellus?
Feeds on herbivorous dung.