Cavity-dwelling
Guides
Eucnemis
Eucnemis is a genus of click beetle allies in the family Eucnemidae, established by August Ahrens in 1812. The genus is predominantly Palaearctic in distribution, with at least four described species. Eucnemis capucina, the type species, is a rare cavity-dwelling beetle associated with old hollow trees in deciduous forests. The genus is notable for its saproxylic lifestyle and conservation significance in European forests.
Ornithodoros turicata
relapsing fever tick
Ornithodoros turicata is a soft tick (family Argasidae) found in the midwestern and southwestern United States. It is the primary vector of Borrelia turicatae, the spirochete agent of tick-borne relapsing fever in humans. The tick has been documented feeding on at least 27 vertebrate host species across mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. It exhibits autogenous reproduction (egg production without a bloodmeal) and transovarial transmission of spirochetes, enabling pathogen maintenance across generations.