Cicindela formosa rutilovirescens
Rumpp, 1986
Mescalero Sand Tiger Beetle
Cicindela formosa rutilovirescens is a sand dune of restricted to the Mescalero Sands region of southeastern New Mexico and adjacent Texas. First described by Rumpp in 1986, it is distinguished from other C. formosa subspecies by its distinctive greenish-red to coppery coloration. The subspecies is active in late summer and fall, with running on open sandy surfaces. It is considered uncommon and patchily distributed within its restricted range.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cicindela formosa rutilovirescens: //sɪˈsɪndələ fɔrˈmoʊsə ˌruːtɪloʊvɪˈrɛskɛnz//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other Cicindela formosa by greenish-red to coppery elytral coloration (the 'rutilovirescens' epithet refers to this reddish-green hue). Separated from the similar Cicindelidia punctulata chihuahuae by more rounded elytral sides and duller, less shiny elytral surface. Differs from Cicindelidia nigrocoerulea (black sky ) by coloration and body proportions.
Habitat
Deep sand dune in the Mescalero Sands region; specifically sandy-loam two-track roads and open sand surfaces within dry grassland and sand dune .
Distribution
to the Mescalero Sands region of southeastern New Mexico (Roosevelt and Chaves counties) and adjacent western Texas.
Seasonality
active in late summer and fall; observed September 9–18 in the source material.
Behavior
are fast-running, on open sandy surfaces. When disturbed, they short distances to escape. They are wary and difficult to approach for photography.
Ecological Role
Predatory in sand dune ; specific ecological interactions poorly documented.
Human Relevance
Of interest to and due to its restricted range and distinctive appearance. Not known to have economic importance.
Similar Taxa
- Cicindelidia punctulata chihuahuaeSimilar size and preference; distinguished by single on (vs. two in C. nigrocoerulea), subparallel rather than rounded , and shinier elytral surface
- Cicindelidia nigrocoeruleaSimilar body shape with rounded ; distinguished by coloration (, green, or black rather than greenish-red/coppery) and specific antennal setation