Cicindela decemnotata meriwetheri
Knisley & Kippenhan, 2012
Meriwether's Badlands Tiger Beetle
Meriwether's Badlands Tiger Beetle is a of the Badlands Tiger Beetle, one of four subspecies recognized based on morphological and molecular evidence. This subspecies was described in 2012 along with two other new subspecies, representing that underwent rapid phylogenetic radiation following glacial recession approximately 10,000 years ago. The subspecies is part of a western group of closely related tiger beetles characterized by green coloration with variable red markings on the , pronotum, and .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cicindela decemnotata meriwetheri: //sɪˈsɪndələ dɛˌkɛmnoʊˈtɑːtə ˌmɛrɨˈwɛθəraɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other C. decemnotata and similar by specific morphological traits; the parent species shows bold white elytral markings with a sharply angled medial band that does not reach the elytral edge, and a characteristic 'greasy' appearance. Molecular analyses support subspecific distinctions and show relatively low genetic divergence among despite marked morphological differences, consistent with recent rapid radiation.
Images
Habitat
Associated with alkaline flats and sandy low ridges in sagebrush landscapes; observed on exposed sandy soil ridges rather than the more obvious alkaline flat .
Distribution
North America; specifically recorded from Wyoming (type locality Soda Lake area) and potentially other parts of the northern Great Basin and northwestern Great Plains within the broader range of the parent .
Seasonality
Active in fall; observations from September during targeted tiger trips.
Behavior
have been observed to vary in cooperativeness for observation and photography; some individuals sit calmly while others are highly skittish and flee upon approach, particularly as day temperatures increase.
Human Relevance
Subject of taxonomic research combining morphological and molecular approaches; of interest to tiger collectors and photographers due to its rarity and limited distribution.
Similar Taxa
- Cicindela decemnotata (other subspecies)Other within the , distinguished by morphological and molecular characters; three additional subspecies were described in the same 2012 study.
- Cicindela limbalis, C. splendida, C. denverensisPartially occurring further east in the Great Plains; share green coloration with variable red markings and white elytral markings but occupy different geographic ranges.
- Cicindela sexguttata, C. patruela, C. denikeiRelated occupying more forested regions further east; part of the same broader species group but ecologically and geographically distinct.