Dung beetle species assemblages in cattle pastures of Vermont and New York State

Dung beetles provide key ecosystem services in pasture environments. In the Northeastern U.S., dairy is the largest agricultural sector and grass-based dairy production is increasing. Despite the importance of dung beetles as beneficial pasture insects, the consequences of changes in pasture habitat with more cattle out on pasture are not well understood, nor is dung beetle species composition known for several states in Northeastern U.S. The aims of this study were to investigate dung beetle diversity and community structure on dairy pastures across Vermont and North Country, New York, and identify relevant livestock management factors that influence these dynamics. Dung baited pitfall trapping and soil health analysis were conducted on 29 grazing dairy farms using different grazing strategies and parasite management. The results reveal an abundant and diverse dung beetle community; however, the population was dominated by individuals of introduced species of European origin, particularly Colobopterus erraticus (Linnaeus, 1758; Coleoptera; Scarabaeidae) which comprised 74% of beetles collected. Native dung beetle species abundance was lower in the Northeast Kingdom of VT. Species assemblage structure differed between management practices related to parasiticide use and grazing. The soil health outcomes bulk density (0 to 50 mm), total carbon, and total nitrogen were correlated with dung beetle biodiversity indices and grazing management. The results indicate that livestock management may influence dung beetle species assemblages and strategies to support biodiversity may support soil health and nutrient cycling in the Northeast.