Sex-specific signals support mate finding and limit aggregation in the dung beetle Aphodius fossor

What is it about?

A number of factors influence the attractiveness of dung pats to dung beetles. Here we tested whether the previous colonisation of beetles made dung pats more attractive. We found that female beetles preferred dung pats colonised by males, and actively avoided pats colonised by other females.

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Why is it important?

Our work sheds light on the curious aggregated distributions observed in dwelling dung beetle populations. Our results suggest the presence of pheromones. If identified, and synthesised these semiochemicals could have applied benefits for monitoring and conservation.