Final answer:
Yes, a dung beetle is a decomposer that plays a vital role in nutrient recycling and soil structure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a dung beetle is a decomposer. Decomposers are organisms that break down dead organic matter and release nutrients back into the environment. Dung beetles play a vital role in ecosystems by burying and consuming dung, which helps improve nutrient recycling and soil structure. They also protect livestock from pests that are attracted to dung. For example, dung beetles save the American cattle industry an estimated $380 million each year by burying livestock feces.
Example: Dung beetles roll dung balls that are up to ten times their own weight, burying them and using them as a food source or a place to lay their eggs. The larvae hatch inside the dung ball and have a nutritious food source available.