Spring Dumbledor
Trypocopris vernalis
This record describes Trypocopris vernalis (species). Recorded family: Geotrupidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
14 to 20 mm. A rather dull black in colour with a variable blue, green or pale pink metallic reflection, the underside is usually metallic blue and the body is rounded in outline. The pronotum is clearly punctured with both large and small punctures. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Occurs in open habitats but has also been found in woodland in some areas. It is associated with dung including the dung of sheep, foxes, horses and cattle. The life cycle is typical of the family with adults occurring in the spring and autumn. Widespread in Britain, but very local and often rare.
Wikipedia reference for Trypocopris vernalis: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trypocopris_vernalis.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Geotrupidae
- Genus
- Trypocopris
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Occurs in open habitats but has also been found in woodland in some areas. It is associated with dung including the dung of sheep, foxes, horses and cattle.
Seasonal Activity
The life cycle is typical of the family with adults occurring in the spring and autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in Britain, but very local and often rare.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Trypocopris vernalis. 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 Spring Dumbledor (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Spring Dumbledor
What is Spring Dumbledor?
Spring Dumbledor (Trypocopris vernalis) is a species in the family Geotrupidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Spring Dumbledor found?
Habitat: Occurs in open habitats but has also been found in woodland in some areas. It is associated with dung including the dung of sheep, foxes, horses and cattle.
When is Spring Dumbledor active?
Spring Dumbledor: seasonal activity - The life cycle is typical of the family with adults occurring in the spring and autumn..