Phanaeus quadridens
This record describes Phanaeus quadridens (species). Recorded family: Scarabaeidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Scarabaeoidea
- Family
- Scarabaeidae (Scarab Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scarabaeinae
- Tribe
- Phanaeini
- Genus
- Phanaeus (Rainbow Scarabs)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassland, mixed forest-grassland area at mid-elevations (1500-2000 m). Common in places grazed by livestock.
Geographic Range
AZ-NM to s.Mex. - Map
Diet and Behavior
Diet: Dung
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Phanaeus quadridens (Say) Orig. Comb: Copris quadridens Say 1835
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Phanaeus quadridens. 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 Phanaeus quadridens (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Phillip Harpootlian; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Phanaeus quadridens
How big is Phanaeus quadridens?
13-23 mm
Where is Phanaeus quadridens found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | Grassland, mixed forest-grassland area at mid-elevations (1500-2000 m). Common in places grazed by livestock. |
| Range | AZ-NM to s.Mex. - Map |
What does Phanaeus quadridens eat?
The diet of the Phanaeus quadridens includes Dung.