Dance of the Dung Beetles: Their role in our changing world

Marcus Byrne · Helen Lunn

Nov 2020 · Tantor Media Inc · Narrated by Dennis Kleinman

About this audiobook

The sweeping scientific and social history of the humble dung beetle In this sweeping history of more than 3,000 years, beginning with Ancient Egypt, scientist Marcus Byrne and writer Helen Lunn capture the diversity of dung beetles and their unique behavior patterns. Dung beetles' fortunes have followed the shifts from a world dominated by a religion that symbolically incorporated them into some of its key concepts of rebirth, to a world in which science has largely separated itself from religion and alchemy. With over 6,000 species found throughout the world, these unassuming but remarkable creatures are fundamental to some of humanity's most cherished beliefs and have been ever present in religion, art, literature, science and the environment. They are at the center of current gene research, play an important role in keeping our planet healthy, and some nocturnal dung beetles have been found to navigate by the starry skies. Outlining the development of science from the point of view of the humble dung beetle is what makes this charming story of immense interest to general readers and entomologists alike.

About the author

Marcus Byrne is a professor in the school of animal, plant and environmental science at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg. He has studied dung beetles for more than 30 years. He is a TED presenter and a recipient of an IgNobel prize.

Dennis Kleinman has been narrating audiobooks since 2013 and has at least forty titles to his credit. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, he currently lives in Los Angeles.