Native dung beetles in Chile. A review with emphasis in their ecology

Abstract

Dung beetles are crucial on the performance of different ecosystems, promoting several ecosystem services. In livestock production, these services are mainly related to the enhancement of soil fertility and the indirect biological control of parasites, through dung burial. Despite their known importance worldwide, in Chile the available scientific studies related to their ecology are scarce, despite the diversity of species found along the country. This work is an historical review of the available studies in Chile related to dung beetles, with emphasis in the advances on their ecology. Based on current knowledge, the potential of these insects for the improvement of the sustainability of livestock production in southern Chile is suggested.