Cicindelidia tenuisignata
(LeConte, 1851)
Thin-lined Tiger Beetle
A in the Cicindelidia, found in alkaline wetland margins and lake shores in the southwestern United States. are active during late summer and fall, with records from September in New Mexico. The species is less commonly encountered than related alkali-adapted tiger beetles and is attracted to ultraviolet light at night.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Cicindelidia tenuisignata: //sɪsɪnˈdɛlɪdiə ˌtɛnjuɪsɪɡˈnɑːtə//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from similar alkali by subtle morphological features. May be confused with Cicindelidia punctulata (punctured tiger beetle), which exhibits greenish coloration in the western C. p. chihuahuae versus the darker coloration sometimes seen in C. tenuisignata. The has been observed in wet alkaline flat alongside Eunota togata globicollis and Cicindelidia ocellata ocellata.
Habitat
Alkaline flats and wet margins of alkaline lakes. Found on moist, alkaline-encrusted mud near water edges. Associated with saltbush chaparral vegetation in the vicinity of alkaline lakes.
Distribution
Southwestern United States and Mexico. Documented in New Mexico (Chaves County at Bottomless Lakes State Park and Bitter Lake National Wildlife ). GBIF records indicate presence in USA and Mexico.
Seasonality
activity observed in late summer and fall. Specific records from September in New Mexico.
Behavior
have been observed running on wet mud near alkaline lake margins. Attracted to ultraviolet light at night. Active during daylight hours but can be found at light sources after dark.
Human Relevance
Of interest to and due to its relative scarcity compared to more common alkali-adapted . Photographed by naturalists, though described as challenging to approach and photograph in field conditions.
Similar Taxa
- Eunota togata globicollis alkali found in same alkaline lake margin ; more abundant and widespread
- Cicindelidia ocellata ocellataCo-occurs on alkaline flats; distinguished by ocellated pattern on
- Cicindelidia punctulataSimilar size and dark coloration may cause confusion; distinguished by antennal setation and elytral shape