Environmental modifications of dung beetle larvae shape their growth and life history.

ABSTRACT: Organisms are not just passive recipients of environmental pressures but can shape the environment they experience. Yet, the mechanisms and evolutionary implications of such niche construction remain poorly understood. Here, we studied these effects in the gazelle dung beetle (Digitonthophagus gazella). Larvae of this species develop in an underground brood chamber (a 'brood ball') composed of dung, which serves as the sole source of food for a single larva. Throughout its development, the larva extensively modifies its environment by constantly eating, regurgitating and shaping particle sizes within the brood ball. Previous research suggests that these larval manipulations increase environmental quality and nutrient availability. However, how larval modifications affect larval growth and

SUBMITTER: McConnell NJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12448313 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature