It is a medium-sized beetle with a robust, oval body and smooth, convex elytra that give it a compact appearance. Overall coloration ranges from yellowish brown to chestnut, with the pronotum showing distinct darker markings, a diagnostic feature. The antennae end in a lamellate club, typical of scarab beetles, and the legs are strong, adapted for digging in the soil.
Geographic distribution: It is widely distributed in southern South America, with frequent records in Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. It is common in temperate and subtropical regions, especially in agricultural and livestock areas.
Habitat: It inhabits natural grasslands, cultivated fields, pastures, and rural landscapes, where loose soils favor larval development. Adults are also found in peri-urban environments, often attracted to artificial lights at night.
Diet: The larvae are root feeders, consuming roots of grasses and other plants, which can cause damage to crops and pastures when populations are high. Adults feed on plant material, pollen, and floral tissues, occasionally contributing to pollination.
Behavior: Adults are mainly nocturnal, with short, heavy flights. They are commonly seen around light sources, while during daylight hours they remain hidden in the soil or vegetation.
Reproduction: Reproduction is oviparous, with eggs laid in the soil. Development includes subterranean larval stages and a pupal stage also underground, resulting in a life cycle closely linked to soil and climatic conditions.
Conservation status: It is not currently listed under any global threat category. It is generally regarded as Not Evaluated or of Least Concern, although it is of agroecological importance due to the potential impact of its larvae on productive systems.
Author of this compilation: EcoRegistros – 15/12/2025