Family overview
Stout, oval body. Lamellate antennae (last segments expanded into a flat club). Robust front legs adapted for digging. Larvae are C-shaped white grubs.
Dung beetles are critical for nutrient cycling. Sacred to ancient Egyptians. Japanese beetle is a major lawn/ornamental pest.
At a glance
Family facts.
Distribution
Worldwide
Habitat
Terrestrial · Soil
Approx. species
30,000
Notable members
Dung beetles, June bugs, Japanese beetle, rhinoceros beetles, Hercules beetle, sacred scarab