description Minotaur Beetle Overview
Typhaeus typhoeus, the minotaur beetle, is a European dung beetle in the family Geotrupidae. Males bear three prominent thoracic horns on the head and pronotum, which give the species its name and are used to compete with rivals and to excavate deep vertical burrows in sandy or loose soil. The beetle provisions these burrows with rabbit or sheep dung as food for its developing larvae. It is found across heathlands and grasslands of western and central Europe, particularly on well-drained soils.
help Minotaur Beetle FAQ
What is the scientific name of the minotaur beetle?
The minotaur beetle is Typhaeus typhoeus, a European dung beetle in the family Geotrupidae. It is also called an earth-boring dung beetle.
Why does the male minotaur beetle have three horns?
Males have three prominent horns that help them compete with rivals around tunnels and dung resources. The horns also assist with excavating and defending deep burrows.
What does the minotaur beetle feed its larvae?
Adults collect dung and bury it in underground brood chambers. Research on Typhaeus typhoeus has found that the beetles commonly make dung sausages, often using rabbit droppings, for the larvae to eat.
Where are minotaur beetles usually found?
They are associated with sandy grassland, heathland, and other open European habitats where they can dig. Their underground burrows protect the brood chambers from surface conditions.
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