Dune-habitat
Guides
Coelus pacificus
Channel Islands Dune Beetle
Coelus pacificus is a darkling beetle (family Tenebrionidae) endemic to the California Channel Islands. It inhabits dune environments across multiple islands, with distinct phylogeographic structure separating northern island populations (Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, San Nicolas) from southern populations (Santa Catalina, San Clemente). The species is morphologically similar to the mainland congener Coelus ciliatus but represents a valid, independently evolving lineage. Conservation concerns arise from its restricted insular distribution and vulnerability to habitat disturbance.
Habronattus amicus
Habronattus amicus is a small jumping spider (family Salticidae) found in the western United States and parts of western Canada. It belongs to the species-rich genus Habronattus, which is particularly diverse in southwestern North America. The species has been the subject of phylogeographic research revealing complex evolutionary dynamics, including localized mitochondrial introgression with syntopic species such as H. ustulatus in dune systems of south-central Oregon. Like other members of its genus, it is a ground-dwelling, visually-oriented predator.
Trimerotropis huroniana
Lake Huron Locust, Great Lakes Grasshopper
A band-winged grasshopper endemic to the Great Lakes region, restricted to open dune habitats along the shores of Lakes Huron, Michigan, and Superior. Body length ranges from 24–40 mm with females larger than males. Adults are active from late July through August. Federally listed as Threatened in Canada under the Species At Risk Act, with approximately 10 known sites remaining in Ontario.
Trimerotropis schaefferi
Gulf Dune Grasshopper
Trimerotropis schaefferi, known as the Gulf Dune Grasshopper, is a band-winged grasshopper species in the family Acrididae. It is found in North America, with distribution records indicating presence in Texas. The species belongs to the genus Trimerotropis, a group known for cryptic coloration that blends with their substrate.