Melinopterus sphacelatus
This record describes Melinopterus sphacelatus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 4.5 to 5.5 mm, the females are slightly larger than the males. The elytra vary from pale straw colour to a deeper brown, the head is blacker. Melinopterus sphacelatus is very similar to M. prodromus and both can be found together in dung. M. sphacelatus can be distinguished by the suture line that runs across the top of its head and by the 8th elytral stria which reaches level with the base of the scutellum. M. prodromus lacks the suture line and the 8th elytral stria ends well before the base of the scutellum. In dung of herbivores, especially cow dung, but also in decaying vegetable matter and fungi. Spring to autumn, but perhaps most abundant in spring.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Scarabaeidae
- Genus
- Melinopterus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In dung of herbivores, especially cow dung, but also in decaying vegetable matter and fungi.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to autumn, but perhaps most abundant in spring.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Associated with dung.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in southern Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Melinopterus sphacelatus. 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 Melinopterus sphacelatus (6)
Frequently Asked Questions About Melinopterus sphacelatus
What is Melinopterus sphacelatus?
Melinopterus sphacelatus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Melinopterus sphacelatus?
4.5 to 5.5 mm, the females are slightly larger than the males. The elytra vary from pale straw colour to a deeper brown, the head is blacker.
Where is Melinopterus sphacelatus found?
Habitat: In dung of herbivores, especially cow dung, but also in decaying vegetable matter and fungi.
When is Melinopterus sphacelatus active?
Melinopterus sphacelatus: seasonal activity - Spring to autumn, but perhaps most abundant in spring..
What is the life cycle of a Melinopterus sphacelatus?
Associated with dung.