dung beetle

noun

1. any of various scarab beetles that feed on or breed in dung.

dung beetle

noun

1. any of the various beetles of the family Scarabaeidae and related families that feed on or breed in dung

Word History and Origins

Origin of dung beetle¹

First recorded in 1625–35

Example Sentences

Dr Daniel tells me that he has already discovered what he believes are 15 new species of dung beetles.

From BBC

They have found that dung beetles' source of food is never at the same location, and consequently they have an extremely limited way of memorising environmental cues around the dung.

From Science Daily

Here was something new and unusual for American audiences, invariably described as a “dung beetle” game or a “snowball simulator.”

From New York Times

Larger animals slough off DNA in skin, scales, and feathers, and researchers have also detected eDNA from mussels, sponges, dung beetles, spiderwebs, and even carnivorous plants, on land and in water.

From Science Magazine

In addition to the newly designated butterflies, Sauron has a namesake dinosaur, a dung beetle and a frog, according to the Natural History Museum.

From New York Times