Cicindela parowana wallisi

Calder, 1922

Wallis' Tiger Beetle

A of tiger to western North America, first described by Calder in 1922. Like other members of the Cicindela, it is a fast-running, visually-oriented . The subspecies designation indicates geographic variation within C. parowana, though specific distinguishing traits from the nominate subspecies remain poorly documented in available sources.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Cicindela parowana wallisi: //sɪˌsɪnˈdiːlə ˌpæroʊˈwɑːnə ˈwɔːlɪsi//

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

As a of Cicindela parowana, separation from the nominate form would require examination of subtle morphological differences, likely in elytral maculation, coloration, or body proportions. Field identification to subspecies level is challenging and may require specimen examination. Distinguishing C. parowana from other sympatric Cicindela relies on standard tiger characters: body size, elytral pattern, coloration, and association. Specific diagnostic features for C. p. wallisi versus other C. parowana subspecies are not documented in available sources.

Distribution

Western North America. Documented from the United States and Canada. Specific range boundaries within this region are not well-delineated in available sources.

Seasonality

Spring-fall . are active during warmer months, with fall activity particularly subject to weather conditions. Cold, wet, or overcast conditions suppress surface activity; individuals may retreat to nighttime roosts under rocks or other cover during adverse weather.

Behavior

Exhibits thermoregulatory typical of tiger beetles: becomes torpid and seeks shelter under rocks during cold, wet conditions. Surface activity is dependent on solar radiation and temperature. Fast-running that relies on visual acuity for hunting.

Ecological Role

Predatory insect, likely contributing to regulation of small in its .

Human Relevance

Subject of entomological collecting interest. Mentioned in field accounts as a target for tiger enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest region of North America.

Similar Taxa

  • Cicindela parowana (nominate subspecies)Geographically overlapping or adjacent ; separation requires careful morphological comparison
  • Cicindela pugetanaSympatric or parapatric in Pacific Northwest; similar preferences and seasonal activity patterns create potential identification challenges

More Details

Taxonomic note

Listed in some sources under (tiger beetles as distinct family) and in others as Cicindelinae within Carabidae. This reflects ongoing taxonomic debate about rank of tiger lineages.

Field observation context

The appears in field naturalist accounts as a challenging target in the Pacific Northwest, where weather conditions frequently interfere with observation opportunities during the fall activity period.

Sources and further reading