Eunota striga
(LeConte, 1875)
Elusive Tiger Beetle
Eunota striga, commonly known as the Elusive Tiger , is a rarely encountered to coastal of the southeastern United States. The species has earned its through its strictly activity pattern—apparently nobody has observed it during daylight hours. It is reliably detected only through its attraction to ultraviolet "blacklights," making it one of the most specialized tiger beetles in North America in terms of survey methodology. The species occurs in salt marshes, mud flats, and openings in coastal pine forest, with the "Road to Nowhere" site in Florida's Dixie County representing one of the most reliable locations for encountering this species.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Eunota striga: /juːˈnoʊtə ˈstrɪɡə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Dark(ish) overall coloration with a subsutural row of green punctures on each ; shinier and slightly larger than similar such as Habroscelimorpha severa. Marginal white spots present at the middle and rear of the elytra. Distinguished from Ellipsoptera punctulata by the combination of larger size, shinier surface, and presence of marginal white spots.
Habitat
Salt marshes, mud flats, and openings in coastal pine forest.
Distribution
Restricted to the west and northeast coasts of Florida and coastal South Carolina. The "Road to Nowhere" near Steinhatchee in Dixie County, Florida represents a well-documented locality.
Seasonality
activity period extends through summer, with August representing the back end of the known activity period.
Behavior
Strictly ; has never been observed during the day. are attracted to ultraviolet "blacklights" in large numbers where they occur, often swarming light sheets and the ground beneath. Activity at lights is non-stop from dusk until at least early morning hours.
Human Relevance
Represents a sought-after for tiger collectors and enthusiasts due to its rarity and the specialized effort required to observe it. The "Road to Nowhere" site has become legendary among tiger beetle aficionados, sometimes drawing collectors from across the country during peak season.
Similar Taxa
- Habroscelimorpha severaSimilar habits and attraction to blacklights, but much more abundant; distinguished by shiny green surface with maculations reduced to small spots at middle and rear of rather than marginal white spots.
- Ellipsoptera punctulataSimilar dark coloration and activity, but distinguished by smaller size, less shiny surface, and absence of marginal white spots on .