Dung Beetles Aid in Reducing Flies and Gastrointestinal Parasites in Pastures

Abstract

Dung beetles are important insects for pasture ecology and soil health. They move manure into the soil, thus increasing organic matter, improving soil structure, increasing water infiltration and providing essential nutrients for grass growth. As the majority of cow/calf and stocker operations are pasture based, and with the increased interest in finishing beef on grass, and grass-based dairies, there has been renewed interest surrounding the importance of dung beetles in pasture ecology.