Dung Beetle Ecology and Behavior

Dung beetles play a crucial role in managing the vast amounts of dung produced by animals, preventing the planet from being overwhelmed by waste. They are categorized into rollers, tunnelers, and dwellers, each with unique methods of handling dung. These beetles contribute significantly to ecological balance by dispersing seeds and enhancing soil health. In agriculture, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve nutrient cycling, providing substantial economic benefits. Their activities also aid in combating climate change by reducing methane production from livestock dung.

What is the primary reason the planet isn't covered in dung?

• Rain washes it away

• Dung beetles consume it

• It decomposes quickly

• Animals bury it

How many species of dung beetles are known to exist?

• Over 3,000

• Over 1,000

• Over 5,000

• Over 7,000

Which group of dung beetles rolls dung into balls?

• Tunnelers

• Rollers

• Dwellers

• Diggers

What do male tunnelers use to fight for control of tunnels?

• Claws

• Teeth

• Wings

• Horns

Where do dwellers lay their eggs?

• In tunnels

• In the soil

• Directly into a dung pat

• In dung balls

What do dung beetle larvae consume before becoming adult beetles?

• Seeds

• Dung

• Soil

• Leaves

How do dung beetles help in seed dispersal?

• By carrying seeds on their backs

• By planting seeds directly

• By burying dung balls with seeds

• By eating seeds

What is the estimated annual value of dung beetles' services to farmers in the US?

• $100 million

• $200 million

• $380 million

• $500 million

How do dung beetles help reduce greenhouse gas emissions?

• By eating methane-producing microbes

• By converting methane to oxygen

• By oxygenating dung pats

• By burying dung deep in the soil

What is one of the overall impacts of dung beetles?

• Fighting climate change

• Decreasing plant growth

• Increasing soil erosion

• Spreading diseases