Short answers, pulled from the story.
The first known example of circular polarization in nature was discovered on the shell of a common scarab beetle. This optical phenomenon allows certain species within the family Scarabaeidae to reflect light in a unique way that has fascinated physicists and biologists alike.
The largest fossil scarabaeid ever discovered was Oryctoantiquus borealis, a creature that lived during the Eocene epoch in Oregon. This ancient giant measured significantly larger than any modern relative and serves as a reminder of the immense diversity that once existed within this family.
In Ancient Egypt, the dung beetle now known as Scarabaeus sacer was revered as sacred, becoming a symbol of rebirth and the sun. This beetle, formerly known as Ateuchus sacer, was so highly regarded that Egyptian amulets representing it were traded throughout the Mediterranean world.
The current definition of Scarabaeidae aligns with the Catalog of Life as of 2023 and includes over 35,000 species worldwide. Several groups formerly treated as subfamilies have been elevated to family rank, while others have been reduced to lower ranks to reflect new genetic data and morphological studies.
The Japanese beetle is a notorious plant-eater that wreaks havoc on various crops and vegetation, causing significant damage to gardens and farms. This destructive capability contrasts sharply with the dung beetles, which are essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems.