Geotrupes spiniger
This record describes Geotrupes spiniger (species). Recorded family: Geotrupidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A big black and slightly lustrous dung beetle. Very similar to Geotrupes stercorarius but in Geotrupes spiniger the outer edge of the mandible has a distinct lobe. The larvae live in the dung of herbivores. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Wikipedia reference for Geotrupes spiniger: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geotrupes_spiniger.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Geotrupidae
- Genus
- Geotrupes
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
In pastures grazed by herbivores.
Seasonal Activity
May to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The larvae live in the dung of herbivores.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Geotrupes spiniger. 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 Geotrupes spiniger (2)
Frequently Asked Questions About Geotrupes spiniger
What is Geotrupes spiniger?
Geotrupes spiniger is a species in the family Geotrupidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Geotrupes spiniger found?
Habitat: In pastures grazed by herbivores.
When is Geotrupes spiniger active?
Geotrupes spiniger: seasonal activity - May to October..
What is the life cycle of a Geotrupes spiniger?
The larvae live in the dung of herbivores.