Some considerations on the dispersal power of Digitonthophagus gazella (Fabricius 1787) in the New World (Coleoptera Scarabaeidae Scarabaeinae)

Abstract

In recent years, imported dung beetles Scarabaeinae have been used to enhance fast manure degradation on the surface of pastures in some regions. In 1972, Digitonthophagus gazella (Fabricius 1787) was first released in Victoria County and Kleber County, Texas, and then in some other regions of the United States. Subsequently the species has extended its distribution area in the U.S.A. and Mexico.

The successful dispersal of D. gazella in Mexico is presented and analysed in this paper. A table showing the dispersal speed in kilometers per year is also included. Furthermore, it is shown that the dispersal is higher towards the South, i. e., towards tropical regions.

Key Words:

• Scarabaeinae
• Mexico
• dispersal speed
• Central America