Notes on the morphology and ecology of Oruscatus opalescens (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae)

Oruscatus opalescens (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Phanaeini), is the dung beetle species scarcely found in collections and very few is known about its biology. This study summarizes the available information about this species, through inventory of specimens in collections, including those more recently collected, and literature review. One hundred-seven specimens were found, in nine collections: 73 from Colombia, 29 from Ecuador and five of unknown origin. An altitudinal range of the species was established between 2,000 and 3,000 m, especially associated to large domestic and wild mammals. © 2014 Sociedad Colombiana de Entomologia. All rights reserved.