Taurus scarab facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Taurus scarab |
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| Onthophagus taurus. Museum specimen | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
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| Order: | |
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Scarabaeinae
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| Genus: |
Onthophagus
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| Species: |
O. taurus
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| Binomial name | |
| Onthophagus taurus (Schreber, 1759)
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The taurus scarab (Onthophagus taurus) is a type of dung beetle. It belongs to the Onthophagus group and the Scarabaeidae family. These beetles are known for their strength and unique horns.
About the Taurus Scarab
Taurus scarabs are small beetles, usually between 5.5 and 11 millimeters long. They have an oval shape and are often black or reddish-brown. Sometimes, their upper body (called the pronotum) has a slight shiny look.
Male taurus scarabs have long horns on their heads. These horns are why they are called "taurus," which means "bull." Males use their horns to fight each other. They fight to win the right to mate with females. These horns can grow in different places on their heads or on the front or sides of their bodies.
Interestingly, some male taurus scarabs do not have horns. These hornless males do not join in the fights. Instead, they have a different way to reproduce. This helps them avoid direct competition with the horned males.
Amazing Strength
The taurus scarab is incredibly strong for its size. It can pull a weight that is 1141 times its own body mass! This makes it one of the strongest animals on Earth when you compare its strength to its body weight. Imagine if you could lift something 1141 times your own weight!
Where They Live
You can find taurus scarabs in many parts of the world. They live in places like Australia, Europe, and parts of Africa, including Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. They are also found in countries like Syria, Iraq, Iran, Afghanistan, and even in the USA (Texas).
Why They Are Important
Dung beetles, including the taurus scarab, are very helpful. They play a big role in breaking down manure (animal waste) on farms. This is especially true on sheep and dairy farms around the world.
In September 2013, O. taurus beetles were brought to New Zealand for the first time. They were released in the Gore District of Southland. These beetles dig tunnels and pull manure into the ground. They use this manure to create "brood balls," which are like special chambers for their eggs.
This work by the beetles helps farmers in several ways:
- It creates more open space for cattle to graze.
- It reduces places where flies and harmful bacteria can grow.
- It lessens the need for chemical fertilizers because the manure is naturally recycled into the soil.
See also
In Spanish: Onthophagus taurus para niños
