The question of whether scarabs are real often arises due to their prominent place in ancient lore. Scarabs are real, living creatures, not just symbols from antiquity. They represent a vast and diverse group of beetles found across the globe. These insects play various roles in their environments, contributing to ecological processes.
Identifying Scarab Beetles
The term “scarab” refers to beetles in the family Scarabaeidae. This family includes approximately 30,000 described species worldwide, varying remarkably in size, shape, and color. Most scarabs have stout, robust bodies that are oval or elongated, often with rounded backs. A defining feature is their antennae, which terminate in a distinctive club of three to seven flattened plates.
Many scarabs exhibit striking appearances, with some species displaying iridescent greens or other metallic hues, while others have more subdued black or brownish coloration. Their forelegs are frequently broad and adapted for digging. In several species, males develop prominent horns on their heads or thoraxes, which they use in contests with other males. Well-known members of this family include dung beetles, rhinoceros beetles, and various chafer beetles like June beetles and Japanese beetles.
Scarabs in Their Environment
Scarab beetles occupy diverse habitats across most terrestrial regions worldwide, with the greatest diversity in tropical areas. Their feeding habits vary, ranging from decomposing materials like dung, carrion, and rotting plants to living plant matter such as roots, leaves, sap, pollen, and nectar. This diverse diet enables them to fill many ecological niches.
The life cycle of a scarab beetle involves complete metamorphosis, progressing through four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Larvae, known as grubs, are C-shaped and whitish, living underground or within decaying organic matter where they feed on roots or other decomposing materials. Scarabs contribute to ecosystem health; for instance, dung beetles play a major role in nutrient cycling by burying and breaking down animal waste, which also helps aerate the soil and control parasites. Some species also aid in seed dispersal, while others, like certain chafers, can be agricultural pests due to their root-feeding larvae.
The Historical Connection
Scarabs hold profound significance in ancient Egyptian culture. The Egyptian dung beetle, Scarabaeus sacer, was highly revered. Ancient Egyptians associated this beetle with the god Khepri, symbolizing the morning sun, creation, and rebirth.
The observed behavior of dung beetles rolling balls of dung was likened to Khepri rolling the sun across the sky each day. The emergence of new beetles from these dung balls also symbolized resurrection and the cycle of life. Consequently, scarabs were widely used as amulets and seals for protection, good fortune, and safe passage in funerary rituals.