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How to use the Keys
How to tell if your
beetle is a dung
beetle
References
Glossary
The importance of
Dung Beetles
Acknowledgements
Onitis caffer
Distribution
South Africa.
Introduced between 1979 and 1984 in New South Wales, Queensland and Western Australia. Only established around Moruya, New South Wales and at some release sites in Western Australia.
Description
Total length 15-20mm. Colour black.
Head: No clypeal teeth. Surface densely punctate, glabrous. A single, small tubercle medially and a low transverse keel between the eyes.
Prothorax: With lateral depressions. Surfaces shiny, glabrous, covered with large punctures.
Elytra: Striae distinct, impressed, with large punctures, glabrous. Intervals 8 & 9 dorsally flattened.
Legs: Hind femur with a serrated ridge.
Sexual dimorphism
Female: No serrated ridge on hind femur.
References
Tyndale-Biscoe, M. (1990) Common Dung Beetles in Pastures of South-eastern Australia. CSIRO Division of Entomology.
Copyright © Australian Museum 2016
Authors: Rebecca Harris & Dr. Chris Reid