# Development of underground detection system using a metal detector and aluminum tag for Copris ochus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae)

## TL;DR

A metal detector system with aluminum tags was developed to track the dung beetle Copris ochus underground, showing promising detection rates and minimal impact on the beetles.

## Contribution

This study introduces a novel metal detection system for tracking soil-dwelling insects, specifically the dung beetle Copris ochus, using aluminum tags.

## Key findings

- Maximum detection distance of 17 cm was achieved with larger and thicker aluminum tags.
- Detection rates were ≥85% at depths up to 10 cm and 45%-60% at 20 cm in field conditions.
- Aluminum tagging had no significant effect on beetle survivorship or behavior.

## Abstract

Tracking of soil-dwelling insects poses greater challenges compared to aboveground-dwelling animals in terrestrial systems. A metal detector system consisting of a commercially available detector and aluminum tags was developed for detecting dung beetle, Copris ochus Motschulsky (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). First, detection efficacy of the system was evaluated by varying volumes of aluminum tags attached on a plastic model of the insect and also by varying angles. Then, detection efficacy was evaluated by varying depths of aluminum-tagged models under soil in 2 vegetation types. Finally, the effects of tag attachment on C. ochus adults were assessed for survivorship, burrowing depth, and horizontal movement. Generally, an increase in tag volume resulted in greater detection distance in semi-field conditions. Maximum detection distance of aluminum tag increased up to 17 cm below soil surface as the tag size (0.5 × 1.0 cm [width × length]) and thickness (16 layers) were maximized, resulting in a tag weight of 31.4 mg, comprising ca. 9% of average weight of C. ochus adult. Furthermore, the detection efficacy did not vary among angles except for 90°. In the field, metal detectors successfully detected 5 aluminum-tagged models in 20 × 10 m (W × L) arena within 10 min with detection rates ≥85% for up to depth of 10 cm and 45%–60% at depth of 20 cm. Finally, aluminum tagging did not significantly affect survivorship and behaviors of C. ochus. Our study indicates the potential of metal detector system for tracking C. ochus under soil.

Graphical Abstract