Onthophagus coproides
This record describes Onthophagus coproides (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Identification notes
Holotype
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scarabaeinae
- Tribe
- Onthophagini
- Genus
- Onthophagus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
generally at higher altitudes in Thomomys, Cymomys, Geomys gopher and prairie dog burrows
Geographic Range
NE‒CO to *TX‒AZ into n.Mexico (*BG data; not listed for TX in )
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Onthophagus coproides Horn 1881
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Onthophagus coproides. 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 Onthophagus coproides (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Onthophagus coproides
How big is Onthophagus coproides?
11‒14 mm (our largest Onthophagus )
How do you identify Onthophagus coproides?
Holotype
Where is Onthophagus coproides found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | generally at higher altitudes in Thomomys, Cymomys, Geomys gopher and prairie dog burrows |
| Range | NE‒CO to *TX‒AZ into n.Mexico (*BG data; not listed for TX in ) |