Boreocanthon ebenus
This record describes Boreocanthon ebenus (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
distinguished from all other Canthon in NE by the lack of a marginal line on the anteroventral surface of the posterior tibia, a deep indentation betw. the clypeus and gena, and presence of large granules on the elytra. Det. C. S. Wolfe, 1995
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scarabaeinae
- Tribe
- Deltochilini
- Genus
- Boreocanthon
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
asso. w/ sand dunes and other habitats with exposed, very sandy substrate
Geographic Range
e.AZ-TX-SD / n. Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Life History
abundant sp. in NE where it can be observed forming, rolling, and burying cattle and bison feces.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Boreocanthon ebenus (Say 1823)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Boreocanthon ebenus. 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 Boreocanthon ebenus (4)
Photo credits: Contributed by Mike Quinn; Additional contributions by v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Boreocanthon ebenus
What is Boreocanthon ebenus?
Boreocanthon ebenus is a species in the family Scarabaeidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Boreocanthon ebenus?
6–11 mm
How do you identify Boreocanthon ebenus?
distinguished from all other Canthon in NE by the lack of a marginal line on the anteroventral surface of the posterior tibia, a deep indentation betw. the clypeus and gena, and presence of large granules on the elytra. Det. C. S. Wolfe, 1995
Where is Boreocanthon ebenus found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | asso. w/ sand dunes and other habitats with exposed, very sandy substrate |
| Range | e.AZ-TX-SD / n. Mex. - Map |
What is the life cycle of a Boreocanthon ebenus?
abundant sp. in NE where it can be observed forming, rolling, and burying cattle and bison feces.