Gulfshore Tiger Beetle

Eunota pamphila

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Adephaga
Family: Carabidae
Subfamily: Cicindelinae
Tribe: Cicindelini
Genus: Eunota
Species: pamphila

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Eunota pamphila: /juːˈnoʊtə ˈpæmfɪlə/

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Summary

Eunota pamphila, or the Gulfshore Tiger Beetle, is a species of predatory beetle found along the Gulf Coast and is notable for its 11-12 mm size and active lifestyle from May through December.

Physical Characteristics

11-12 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Adults are typically recognized by their active behavior in early mornings and their distinctive body shape characteristic of tiger beetles.

Habitat

Primarily found along the Gulf Coast, inhabiting sandy or saline areas.

Distribution

Found from Mississippi to northeastern Tamaulipas, Mexico; locally abundant in Texas and uncommon elsewhere.

Diet

As a predator, the Gulfshore Tiger Beetle feeds on various small insects and larvae.

Life Cycle

Adults are active from May to December, but the larval stage is currently unknown.

Reproduction

Specific reproductive behaviors are not documented, but like other tiger beetles, they may lay eggs in sandy substrate.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator, this species plays a role in controlling pest insect populations and contributing to the ecological balance.

Evolution

Eunota pamphila was first described by LeConte in 1873 and belongs to a larger lineage of saline tiger beetles known for their adaptation to coastal habitats.