Dung beetle Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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dung beetle

[dʌŋ ˈbiːt(ə)l ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

insect

A dung beetle is a type of insect that feeds on feces. They are known for their habit of rolling dung into round balls, which are used as food or as a place to lay eggs.

Synonyms

scarab beetle, tumblebug.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
dung beetle	Generally used in scientific or educational contexts to refer to beetles that feed on dung. Dung beetles play an important role in recycling nutrients back into the soil
scarab beetle	Often used in historical or cultural contexts, especially when referring to ancient Egypt where the scarab beetle was considered a symbol of regeneration and rebirth. The scarab beetle was a significant symbol in Ancient Egyptian culture and was often depicted in their art and jewelry
tumblebug	Commonly used in more casual or colloquial contexts, particularly in rural or farming communities in North America. Kids in the countryside love watching tumblebugs roll balls of dung across the ground

Word

Description / Examples

dung beetle

Generally used in scientific or educational contexts to refer to beetles that feed on dung.

Dung beetles play an important role in recycling nutrients back into the soil

scarab beetle

Often used in historical or cultural contexts, especially when referring to ancient Egypt where the scarab beetle was considered a symbol of regeneration and rebirth.

The scarab beetle was a significant symbol in Ancient Egyptian culture and was often depicted in their art and jewelry

tumblebug

Commonly used in more casual or colloquial contexts, particularly in rural or farming communities in North America.

Kids in the countryside love watching tumblebugs roll balls of dung across the ground

Examples of usage

They spotted a dung beetle rolling a ball of dung across the field.
Dung beetles play an important role in recycling nutrients in the ecosystem.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Ecology

Dung beetles play a crucial role in nutrient recycling by breaking down animal waste, enriching the soil.
Some species can bury dung up to 250 times their body weight, demonstrating their incredible strength and dedication.

Cultural Significance

Ancient Egyptians considered dung beetles sacred, associating them with the sun god Ra, as beetles roll dung like the sun rolls across the sky.
In many Indigenous cultures, dung beetles are seen as symbols of transformation and regeneration in nature.

Biology

Dung beetles have specialized mouthparts for chewing and rolling dung, which helps them transport food and lay eggs.
They exhibit a variety of nesting behaviors, with some creating elaborate tunnels to store dung for their young.

Amazing Facts

Over 6,000 species of dung beetles exist worldwide, each adapted to specific environments and types of waste.
Some beetles can detect dung from over a mile away, guided by the smell of the waste.

Origin of 'dung beetle'

Main points about word origin

The term 'beetle' comes from the Old English word 'bёtela', which signifies an insect with wings.
The word 'dung' traces back to Proto-Germanic, meaning 'excrement or manure', showing its connection to fertilization.

The term 'dung beetle' dates back to the early 18th century, with 'dung' referring to animal feces and 'beetle' being the name of the insect. Dung beetles have been revered in various cultures for their role in cleaning up waste and helping with soil fertility. They have been depicted in ancient Egyptian art and were associated with the sun god Ra. Today, dung beetles continue to be studied for their ecological importance and unique behaviors.