Fossorial
Guides
Aegialia cartwrighti
Aegialia cartwrighti is a small dung beetle in the subfamily Aegialiinae, described by Stebnicka in 1977. It belongs to a genus associated with sandy coastal and desert habitats. The species is known from limited records in the southeastern United States.
Ammopelmatus monahansensis
Ammopelmatus monahansensis is a species of Jerusalem cricket in the family Stenopelmatidae, described by Stidham & Stidham in 2001. The genus Ammopelmatus comprises sand dune endemic species found in the southwestern United States. These flightless orthopterans are characterized by their large size, fossorial habits, and nocturnal activity patterns. A. monahansensis is one of several described species within this genus that are restricted to specific sand dune systems.
Ammopelmatus muwu
Point Conception Jerusalem Cricket
Ammopelmatus muwu is a Jerusalem cricket species in the family Stenopelmatidae. It is endemic to a restricted coastal region of central California, specifically parts of San Luis Obispo and Santa Barbara counties. The species was described in 1981 and is one of several sand dune-associated Ammopelmatus species in western North America. Like other members of its genus, it is nocturnal and fossorial.
Ammopelmatus nigrocapitatus
Black-headed Jerusalem Cricket
Ammopelmatus nigrocapitatus is a species of Jerusalem cricket in the family Stenopelmatidae, originally described by Tinkham & Rentz in 1969. It is one of 12 previously named taxa recognized as valid in a comprehensive 2025 revision of the genus. The species is endemic to parts of Southern California and is characterized by its distinctive black head. Like other Ammopelmatus species, it is a large, flightless orthopteran adapted to arid and semi-arid environments.
Ammophila azteca
Aztec Thread-waisted Wasp
Ammophila azteca is a thread-waisted wasp in the family Sphecidae, native to Canada, Mexico, and the continental United States. It ranges from near sea level to over 6,000 feet in elevation. The species exhibits distinctive nesting behavior involving pebble-mediated burrow closures and progressive provisioning of caterpillar prey for its larvae.
Amnestus pusillus
Amnestus pusillus is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, characterized by fossorial (burrowing) habits typical of this group. The species is distributed across the Caribbean, Central America, and North America. As a member of the burrowing bug family, it likely inhabits soil-associated environments, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Amnestus spinifrons
burrowing bug
Amnestus spinifrons is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1825. It belongs to the genus Amnestus, which comprises burrowing bugs that live in soil and are associated with plant roots. The species is known from North America. Burrowing bugs in this family are characterized by fossorial (digging) adaptations and are often found in association with host plants.
Anacrabro
Anacrabro is a genus of square-headed wasps in the family Crabronidae containing approximately 15 described species. Two species occur in North America north of Mexico: A. ocellatus, widespread east of the Rocky Mountains, and A. boerhaviae in the extreme southwestern U.S. and Mexico. The genus is distinguished from related crabronine wasps by its concave abdominal underside and, in A. ocellatus, by its specialized predation on plant bugs (Miridae) rather than flies.
Anacrabro ocellatus
square-headed wasp
Anacrabro ocellatus is a small (6-7 mm) fossorial wasp in the family Crabronidae. Unlike most related genera in tribe Crabronini that hunt flies, this species specializes in capturing plant bugs (family Miridae) to provision its subterranean nest cells. It is widespread east of the Rocky Mountains in North America, with three recognized subspecies. The species is notable for its potential role in biological control of agricultural pests.
Andrena dunningi
Dunning's Miner Bee, Dunning's Miner
Andrena dunningi is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, native to North America. Like other Andrena species, it is a ground-nesting bee that excavates tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and lay eggs. As a spring-flying bee, it contributes to early-season pollination. The species is one of many Andrena bees that form a significant component of native bee diversity in temperate North American habitats.
Andrena levipes
Andrena levipes is a species of mining bee in the family Andrenidae, described by LaBerge in 1967. It is a solitary, ground-nesting bee native to North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it shares the characteristic fossorial nesting behavior typical of mining bees, excavating tunnels in soil to provision with pollen and nectar for its larvae. Specific ecological details for this species remain poorly documented.
Andrena sola
Lonely Mining Bee, lonely miner
Andrena sola is a solitary mining bee in the family Andrenidae, commonly known as the Lonely Mining Bee. It is native to Central America and North America. As a member of the large genus Andrena, it exhibits the fossorial nesting behavior typical of mining bees, constructing underground burrows for reproduction. The specific epithet "sola" (Latin for "alone" or "lonely") reflects its solitary nature rather than social behavior.
Antrodiaetus montanus
Mountain Folding-Door Spider
Antrodiaetus montanus is a mygalomorph spider in the family Antrodiaetidae, commonly known as folding-door spiders. The species constructs silk-lined burrows with hinged, trapdoor-like closures made of silk and soil. It is native to mountainous regions of the western United States. Like other antrodiaetids, it exhibits fossorial behavior and is rarely observed above ground except during dispersal events.
Aphonopelma marxi
Grand Canyon Black Tarantula
Aphonopelma marxi is a North American tarantula species in the family Theraphosidae, commonly known as the Grand Canyon Black Tarantula. It is a medium-sized, dark-colored species belonging to the 'Marxi species group' of mainly black, high-elevation tarantulas. The species was first described in 1891 and has undergone taxonomic revision, with two former species (A. behlei and A. vogelae) now recognized as synonyms. It is widely distributed but difficult to observe due to its fossorial habits.
Aptostichus
Aptostichus is a genus of mygalomorph trapdoor spiders in the family Euctenizidae, described by Eugène Simon in 1891. The genus contains 41 described species distributed primarily in southern California, with some species extending into northern California, Mexico, and the Channel Islands. These spiders are notable for constructing silk-lined burrows with thin wafer-like trapdoors, though unlike some related genera, they do not seal side chambers with additional trapdoors. Several species have been named after prominent figures, reflecting both scientific interest and public engagement in arachnology.
Aptostichus atomarius
San Bernardino hills trapdoor spider
Aptostichus atomarius, the San Bernardino hills trapdoor spider, is a wafer-lid trapdoor spider in the family Euctenizidae. First described by Eugène Simon in 1891, this species is native to the United States. Like other members of its genus, it constructs silk-lined burrows with wafer-like trapdoor lids. The species is part of a diverse genus of trapdoor spiders found primarily in California and surrounding regions.
Aptostichus chemehuevi
Chemehuevi Desert Trapdoor Spider
Aptostichus chemehuevi is a species of trapdoor spider in the family Euctenizidae, described by arachnologist Jason Bond in 2012. It belongs to a genus of mygalomorph spiders known for constructing silk-lined burrows with hinged trapdoor lids. The species epithet references the Chemehuevi people, a Native American group whose traditional territory includes parts of the southwestern United States where this spider occurs. Like other Aptostichus species, it is a fossorial predator with limited dispersal capability.
Aptostichus simus
Southern Coastal Dune Trapdoor Spider
Aptostichus simus is a medium-sized mygalomorph trapdoor spider endemic to coastal sand dune habitats of California and Baja California, Mexico. This fossorial species constructs deep, silk-lined burrows with camouflaged trapdoor lids made of sand and silk, typically situated at the base of native dune vegetation. Recent integrative taxonomic research using genomic data has revealed significant cryptic diversity within this species complex, including the description of a new cryptic species, A. ramirezae, from Moss Landing State Beach. The species exhibits deep genetic divergence dating to 2-3 million years ago despite morphological homogeneity, with populations showing extreme habitat specificity that makes them vulnerable to coastal habitat degradation.
Arenivaga
sand cockroaches, desert cockroaches
Arenivaga is a genus of sand cockroaches in the family Corydiidae, comprising approximately 48 species distributed across the southwestern United States, Florida, and Mexico. These insects are highly adapted to arid environments, inhabiting sandy soils and dunes with moisture content below 1%. The genus exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism, with winged males and wingless, fossorial females that 'swim' through sand. A 2014 revision by Heidi Hopkins added 39 new species to the previously known nine, revealing a remarkable radiation in desert habitats.
Arenivaga floridensis
Florida Sand Cockroach
Arenivaga floridensis is a sexually dimorphic, fossorial sand cockroach endemic to Florida scrub ecosystems. It is the most geographically widespread faunal endemic of Florida scrub, documented from 11 peninsular sand ridges. Genetic analysis reveals three major mitochondrial lineages whose divergence corresponds with late Pliocene peninsula insularization, supporting a western origin hypothesis with colonization during the Pliocene or earlier. The species exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism: males possess fully developed wings and engage in low, erratic flight at dusk, while females are completely wingless and remain entirely fossorial throughout life. Its distribution is restricted to friable, sandy soils beneath light leaf litter of sand live oaks (Quercus geminata).
Arenivaga hopkinsorum
desert cockroach, sand cockroach
Arenivaga hopkinsorum is a species of desert cockroach in the family Corydiidae, described by Heidi Hopkins in 2014 as part of a major revision of the genus Arenivaga. Like other Arenivaga species, it exhibits dramatic sexual dimorphism, with females appearing wingless and males possessing fully developed wings. The species inhabits arid environments in the southwestern United States and Mexico, where it contributes to decomposition despite limited plant matter. The specific epithet honors the Hopkins family, particularly referencing the author's father and brother.
Arenivaga investigata
desert cockroach
Arenivaga investigata, the desert cockroach, is a species in the family Corydiidae endemic to the Colorado Desert of California. It is notable for its ability to absorb water vapor from unsaturated air above 82.5% relative humidity, a physiological adaptation that allows survival in one of the most arid environments on Earth. The species exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism, with wingless females and fully winged males. It inhabits sand dunes and is primarily found in subsurface microhabitats where temperature and moisture conditions remain favorable.
Arenophilus
Arenophilus is a genus of soil-dwelling centipedes in the family Geophilidae, order Geophilomorpha. These elongated, multi-legged arthropods inhabit terrestrial environments. The genus was established by Chamberlin in 1912. Members possess the characteristic features of geophilid centipedes, including numerous leg pairs and a fossorial lifestyle adapted to burrowing in soil and leaf litter.
Aspidoglossa
Aspidoglossa is a genus of ground beetles (family Carabidae) established by Putzeys in 1846. The genus comprises approximately 26 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropics, with a single species, Aspidoglossa subangulata, extending into the southern United States. These beetles belong to the subtribe Ardistomina within the tribe Clivinini, a group characterized by fossorial (burrowing) adaptations. The genus has been documented through 629 iNaturalist observations, indicating moderate levels of citizen science engagement.
Astatinae
Astatina wasps
Astatinae is a cosmopolitan subfamily of solitary wasps in the family Crabronidae, comprising approximately 14 species in North America and additional species across Europe and Asia. The subfamily includes two primary genera: Astata and Dryudella. Males are readily distinguished by their holoptic eyes—enormous compound eyes that meet at the top of the head—and exceptionally broad hind wings that enable rapid flight. Females are fossorial, constructing multi-celled nest burrows in soil or sand and provisioning them with paralyzed true bugs (Hemiptera) as food for their larvae.
Atypus
Purse-web Spider, Purseweb Spider
Atypus is a genus of mygalomorph spiders commonly known as purse-web spiders, first described by Latreille in 1804. These spiders construct distinctive silk tubes (purse-webs) that extend from underground burrows vertically along tree bases, fences, or other surfaces. The genus occurs across Eurasia and northern Africa, with 38 described species as of 2025. Atypus species are perennial, with females living 8–10 years, and conduct nearly all life activities—including predation, mating, and egg-laying—within their sealed webs. One Asian species, A. karschi, has been introduced and established in southeastern Pennsylvania, USA.
Bibio articulatus
red-legged march fly
Bibio articulatus is a species of march fly in the family Bibionidae, commonly known as the red-legged march fly. It is distinguished by its dark exoskeleton ranging from black to deep red and its conspicuous red or orange legs. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism, particularly in eye size and body proportions. It is most active during spring months and is found primarily in the eastern United States.
Bibio rufipes
March fly
Bibio rufipes is a species of march fly in the family Bibionidae. Adults emerge in spring, with males forming conspicuous swarms that blanket ground and low vegetation. Females possess fossorial adaptations including stout, downcurved spurs on the fore tibiae used to excavate soil for egg-laying. The species occurs across northern Europe including Norway and Sweden.
Bicyrtes capnopterus
Bicyrtes capnopterus is a species of sand wasp in the family Crabronidae. It occurs in Central America and North America. Like other members of the genus Bicyrtes, females are fossorial, excavating burrows in soil to provision with prey for their larval offspring. The species is part of a group of wasps known for preying on true bugs, contributing to natural control of pest populations.
Bicyrtes fodiens
Bicyrtes fodiens is a solitary sand wasp in the family Crabronidae, native to North and Middle America. Like other members of its genus, it is a fossorial species that excavates burrows in sandy or coarse soil to provision with paralyzed true bugs for its larval offspring. The species is part of a guild of beneficial predatory wasps that help control pest insect populations, including stink bugs. Adults are nectar-feeders and can often be observed visiting flowers.
Bicyrtes insidiatrix
Bicyrtes insidiatrix is a species of sand wasp in the family Crabronidae. It is found in North America. Like other members of the genus Bicyrtes, it is a solitary, fossorial wasp that nests in sandy or coarse soils. The species is part of a group of wasps known for preying on true bugs (Hemiptera), though specific prey records for this species are not well documented in the available literature.
Bicyrtes quadrifasciatus
Four-banded Stink Bug Wasp, four-banded stink bug hunter wasp
Bicyrtes quadrifasciatus is a sand wasp native to North America, east of the Rocky Mountains. Females construct solitary burrows in sandy soil to provision with paralyzed true bugs, primarily stink bugs (Pentatomidae), as food for their larvae. The species has gained attention for its role as a native biological control agent of the invasive Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (Halyomorpha halys). Adults are nectar-feeders and can be readily observed at flowers.
Bicyrtes variegatus
sand wasp
Bicyrtes variegatus is a sand wasp species in the family Crabronidae, distributed across Central and South America with established populations in the Galápagos Islands. The species exhibits notable behavioral flexibility, having been documented in diverse vegetation zones from littoral to humid habitats and interacting with both native and introduced flora. As a member of the Bembicinae, it shares the subfamily's characteristic fossorial nesting habits and prey specialization on true bugs, though specific ecological details remain incompletely documented across its broad range.
Bicyrtes ventralis
Bicyrtes ventralis is a sand wasp in the family Crabronidae, distributed across Central America and North America. Like other members of the genus Bicyrtes, it is a solitary, fossorial wasp that nests in soil. Females provision underground burrows with paralyzed true bugs as food for their larval offspring. The species is one of approximately eight North American species in the genus Bicyrtes.
Bicyrtes viduatus
Bicyrtes viduatus is a sand wasp in the family Crabronidae, found in Central America. It is characterized by pale yellow coloration and lacks the distinctive thoracic 'smiley face' pattern present in related yellow-colored species B. capnopterus and B. ventralis. The submarginal cell of the wing is clouded while the wings remain largely clear. As a member of the genus Bicyrtes, it shares the family's general biology as a solitary, fossorial wasp that preys on true bugs.
Bolboceratinae
earth-boring scarab beetles
Bolboceratinae is a subfamily of earth-boring scarab beetles within Geotrupidae, containing approximately 8 genera and at least 40 described species. The group exhibits a disjunct global distribution with centers of diversity in Australia, South America, southern Africa, and parts of Eurasia. Some authorities recognize Bolboceratinae as the family Bolboceratidae. Members are characterized by fossorial adaptations and diverse reproductive strategies including egg gigantism in some lineages.
Bolbocerosoma confusum
Bolbocerosoma confusum is an earth-boring scarab beetle in the family Geotrupidae, described by Brown in 1928. It is native to North America, with documented records from Arkansas, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. As a member of the bolboceratine geotrupids, it exhibits the family's characteristic fossorial adaptations for burrowing in soil.
Brachycistidinae
Brachycistidinae is a subfamily of flower wasps (Tiphiidae) containing 10 genera and 85 species endemic to the Nearctic region. These wasps exhibit extreme sexual dimorphism: females are wingless and ant-like, living primarily underground, while males are winged and nocturnal. The subfamily has historically suffered from "dual taxonomy," where sexes were described as separate species due to their dissimilar appearance. Taxonomic resolution remains challenging due to structural similarities among species and lack of distinctive coloration.
Bradycinetulus
Bradycinetulus is a genus of earth-boring scarab beetles in the family Bolboceratidae, established by Cockerell in 1906. The genus contains at least three described species distributed in the Nearctic region. These beetles are robust, fossorial insects adapted for burrowing in soil. Field observations indicate adults are attracted to lights at night and have been collected from sand dune habitats and pack rat runs.
Bradycinetulus ferrugineus
Bradycinetulus ferrugineus is a species of earth-boring scarab beetle in the family Geotrupidae. It occurs in the southeastern United States, with records from Florida, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina. The species is associated with rodent burrows, particularly pack rat runs, where adults and larvae have been collected.
Bradycinetulus fossatus
fossate bolboceratine, fossate earth-boring dung beetle
Bradycinetulus fossatus is a large, robust bolboceratine geotrupid beetle found in sand dune and sandy grassland habitats of the south-central United States. The species is characterized by its chunky body form and fossorial (burrowing) adaptations typical of the subfamily. It is attracted to lights at night and has been documented in Oklahoma, New Mexico, and Texas. The species is part of a small genus of North American bolboceratines that are poorly studied relative to their ecological role in sandy ecosystems.
Bradycinetulus rex
earth-boring scarab beetle
Bradycinetulus rex is an earth-boring scarab beetle described by Cartwright in 1953. It belongs to the family Geotrupidae, a group commonly known as earth-boring dung beetles for their habit of digging burrows in soil. The species is known from the Nearctic region, with records from Texas. Like other members of its genus, it likely exhibits the fossorial (burrowing) habits characteristic of the family.
Chanbria
camel spiders, sun spiders
Chanbria is a genus of camel spiders (order Solifugae) established by Martin H. Muma in 1951. It comprises four recognized species endemic to the Sonoran Desert region of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. Adults measure 20–30 mm and possess distinctive fan-shaped malleoli on the hind legs containing approximately 72,000 sensory neurons each. Juveniles exhibit specialized fossorial hunting behavior, using tactile and chemical cues to locate prey beneath sand.
Clivina
A ground beetle in the genus Clivina, family Carabidae, from Stanislaus County, California. Members of this genus are small, fossorial carabid beetles adapted to burrowing in soil. The specific identity of this specimen is not determined beyond genus level.
Clivina californica
Clivina californica is a species of ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by Van Dyke in 1925. The genus Clivina comprises small, fossorial ground beetles characterized by their compact, cylindrical body form adapted for burrowing in soil. Species in this genus are morphologically conservative and often difficult to distinguish without detailed examination.
Clivina fossor
Digger Slope-rumped Beetle
Clivina fossor is a ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by Linnaeus in 1758. It is the largest species in its subfamily, characterized by fossorial (digging) adaptations including broad tarsal segments on the forelegs. The species exhibits a widespread Palaearctic distribution with introduced populations in North America, and shows flexible habitat use across grasslands, wetlands, woodlands, and agricultural areas. Adults are nocturnal and subterranean by day, while larvae live entirely underground.
Clivina fossor fossor
Clivina fossor fossor is a subspecies of ground beetle in the family Carabidae, first described by Linnaeus in 1758. It belongs to a genus characterized by fossorial (digging) adaptations, with females possessing modified forelegs for excavating burrows in soil. The subspecies has been recorded across parts of North America and Europe, though detailed biological studies remain limited.
Clivina pallida
Pale Slope-rumped Beetle
Clivina pallida is a species of ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by Thomas Say in 1823. It belongs to the genus Clivina, a group of small, fossorial carabid beetles commonly known as ant-like stone beetles or slope-rumped beetles. The species epithet "pallida" refers to its pale coloration. Very little specific biological information is documented for this particular species.
Clivina punctigera
Clivina punctigera is a species of ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1857. The genus Clivina comprises small, fossorial ground beetles characterized by their compact bodies and fossorial (burrowing) adaptations. Like other members of Scaritinae, this species likely exhibits morphological traits associated with subterranean or soil-dwelling habits, though specific details for C. punctigera remain poorly documented.
Clivina rufa
Clivina rufa is a ground beetle species in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1857. The genus Clivina comprises small, fossorial ground beetles commonly known as ant-loving beetles or seedcorn beetles. Members of this genus are typically found in soil and leaf litter habitats. The species epithet 'rufa' refers to reddish coloration.
Crabro
Shield-handed Wasps, Square-headed Wasps
Crabro is a genus of solitary wasps in the family Crabronidae, commonly known as shield-handed or square-headed wasps. The genus contains at least 80 described species distributed across the Nearctic and Palaearctic regions (Holarctic). These fossorial wasps nest in sandy soils, constructing multi-celled burrows provisioned with flies (Diptera) for their larvae.
Crabro latipes
Crabro latipes is a species of square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae, a group of solitary predatory wasps. The species was described by Frederick Smith in 1856. Like other members of the genus Crabro, it is a fossorial wasp that constructs burrows in soil to provision with prey for its developing young. The specific epithet "latipes" refers to broad feet, likely describing a morphological feature of the legs.
Crabro monticola
A solitary digger wasp in the family Crabronidae. The species has been the subject of comparative nesting behavior studies. As a member of genus Crabro, it is part of a group of predatory wasps that provision nests with paralyzed prey for their larvae.
Crabro peltista
Crabro peltista is a species of solitary digger wasp in the family Crabronidae, described by Kohl in 1888. Like other members of the genus Crabro, this species is a fossorial wasp that constructs underground burrows to provision with prey for its larvae. The species occurs in Middle America and North America, though specific details about its biology and ecology remain poorly documented in available literature.
Crabro snowii
Crabro snowii is a species of square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae, described by W. Fox in 1896. It is known from North America, with records from Canada including Alberta. As a member of the genus Crabro, it likely exhibits the fossorial nesting behavior and predatory habits characteristic of the tribe Crabronini, though specific details about its biology remain poorly documented.
Cydnidae
burrowing bugs, burrower bugs
Cydnidae is a family of pentatomoid true bugs commonly known as burrowing or burrower bugs. Many species are fossorial, burrowing into soil using their head and forelegs, emerging primarily to mate and lay eggs. Other members live above ground, often associated with plants. The family includes agricultural pests and exhibits diverse habitat preferences across subfamilies.
Cydnini
Cydnini is a tribe of burrowing bugs within the subfamily Cydninae (family Cydnidae). Members are small to medium-sized true bugs adapted for fossorial life, with fossorial legs modified for digging. The tribe contains multiple genera and is distinguished from related tribes by genitalic and leg structure. These insects are primarily soil-dwelling and often associated with plant roots.
Cyrtomenus ciliatus
Cyrtomenus ciliatus is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, native to North America. Like other members of this family, it is adapted for a fossorial lifestyle, living and feeding underground. The species was first described by Palisot in 1818.
Cyrtomenus crassus
burrowing bug
Cyrtomenus crassus is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, first described by Walker in 1867. As a member of the burrowing bug family, it is adapted to fossorial life in soil and associated substrates. The species has a broad geographic distribution spanning the Caribbean, Central America, and North America.
Daihinibaenetes arizonensis
Arizona giant sand treader cricket
Daihinibaenetes arizonensis is a wingless orthopteran in the family Rhaphidophoridae, endemic to sand dune habitats near Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona. It is among the largest members of its genus, with collected specimens exceeding 2 cm in length. The species exhibits nocturnal activity and specialized fossorial behavior, digging burrows up to 18 inches deep in sand. It is active primarily in spring and is presumed to perish during summer heat.
Daihiniodes hastifera
Arizona sand-treader cricket
Daihiniodes hastifera is a flightless cricket known as the Arizona sand-treader cricket. It belongs to the family Rhaphidophoridae, commonly called camel crickets or cave crickets. The species is endemic to arid regions of western North America. Its common name reflects its specialized adaptation to sandy desert habitats.
Dallasiellus lugubris
Dallasiellus lugubris is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, first described by Stål in 1860. As a member of this family, it possesses the characteristic adaptations for fossorial (burrowing) life that distinguish cydnids from other true bugs. The species has a broad geographic distribution spanning the Caribbean, Central America, North America, and South America, with records from multiple Brazilian states including Espírito Santo, Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, Pará, Rio de Janeiro, Rondônia, Rio Grande do Sul, and São Paulo.
Dilophus tingi
March fly
Dilophus tingi is a species of March fly in the family Bibionidae. Like other members of the genus Dilophus, it is likely smaller and less robust than the related genus Bibio, and frequently exhibits reddish coloration. March flies are spring-emerging dipterans known for their swarming behavior and fossorial egg-laying habits.
Dinothrombium
Giant Velvet Mites, Red Velvet Mites
Dinothrombium is a genus of large predatory mites in the family Trombidiidae, commonly called giant velvet mites. Adults are among the largest mites in the world, with some species reaching 12–14 mm in body length. They are fossorial, spending most of their lives underground in soil or sand, and emerge only after heavy rainfall. Their bright red coloration appears to serve an aposematic function, warning predators of their chemical defenses.
Dryudella caerulea
Dryudella caerulea is a solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, subfamily Astatinae. It is one of approximately ten North American species in the genus Dryudella. Females are fossorial, excavating nest burrows in soil, and provision nests with paralyzed true bugs (Hemiptera) as food for their larvae. The species is found in arid habitats of western North America and Central America. Males possess holoptic eyes that meet at the top of the head and broader hind wings than females, adaptations associated with their rapid, darting flight behavior while perching on vegetation to detect mates and rivals.
Dyschirius erythrocerus
Dyschirius erythrocerus is a species of ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1857. The specific epithet 'erythrocerus' (from Greek 'erythros' meaning red and 'keros' meaning horn) likely refers to reddish coloration on the antennae or other appendages. It belongs to a genus of small, fossorial ground beetles adapted for burrowing in soil.
Dyschirius planatus
Dyschirius planatus is a species of ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by Lindroth in 1961. It belongs to a genus of small ground beetles characterized by fossorial (burrowing) adaptations. The species is recorded from North America, specifically Canada and the United States. Like other members of Dyschirius, it likely inhabits moist soil environments where it pursues small invertebrate prey.
Dyschirius terminatus
Dyschirius terminatus is a small ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1846. Like other members of the genus Dyschirius, it belongs to a group of carabid beetles characterized by fossorial (digging) adaptations. The species occurs across North America, including Canada, the United States, and parts of Middle America.
Dyschirius varidens
Dyschirius varidens is a small ground beetle in the subfamily Scaritinae, described by Henry Clinton Fall in 1910. The species belongs to a genus characterized by fossorial (burrowing) habits and preference for moist, sandy or muddy substrates. It is known from the United States, with distribution records indicating presence in North America. As with other members of Dyschirius, it likely inhabits riparian or wetland edges where it hunts small invertebrate prey.
Ectemnius cephalotes
Large Ectemnius
Ectemnius cephalotes is a species of square-headed wasp in the family Crabronidae. It is a solitary, fossorial wasp that constructs underground nests. The species has a broad distribution spanning Europe, Northern Asia (excluding China), and North America. It is one of the larger members of the genus Ectemnius, which comprises approximately 80 species worldwide.
Ectemnius dilectus
Ectemnius dilectus is a solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae, tribe Crabronini. It belongs to a genus of digger wasps that primarily prey on flies (Diptera), distinguishing them from related genera such as Anacrabro that hunt plant bugs. The species is recorded in North America, with distribution records from Canada including Alberta. As a member of Crabronini, it is fossorial, constructing underground nests for rearing offspring.
Ellipes
pygmy mole crickets
Ellipes is a genus of pygmy mole crickets (Orthoptera: Tridactylidae) containing small, fossorial insects. Most tridactylids inhabit moist margins of ponds and streams, but some Ellipes species have independently evolved to occupy xeric scrub and sandhill habitats. The genus includes at least six described species distributed across North and South America, with several Florida endemics exhibiting restricted ranges and limited study due to their minute size and cryptic habits.
Ellipes californicus
Ellipes californicus is a species of pygmy mole cricket in the family Tridactylidae, described by Günther in 1985. The genus Ellipes is characterized by reduced wings and fossorial (burrowing) adaptations. This species is known from the northwestern region of Mexico. Like other tridactylids, it likely inhabits moist sandy or muddy soils near water bodies and possesses enlarged hind legs adapted for jumping.
Ellipes minuta
Smaller Sand Cricket
Ellipes minuta, commonly known as the Smaller Sand Cricket, is a species of pygmy mole cricket in the family Tridactylidae. This small orthopteran is adapted for burrowing in sandy substrates, with modified forelegs for digging. The species occurs across a broad geographic range including parts of North, Central, and South America. Like other members of the genus Ellipes, it inhabits moist sandy areas near water bodies where it can burrow and feed.
Ellipes monticolus
canyon pygmy mole cricket
Ellipes monticolus is a poorly known pygmy mole cricket endemic to canyon environments in the southwestern United States. First described in 1977 from genitalia drawings alone, the species remained without natural history documentation until 2020, when the first live photographs and field observations were published from the Chiricahua Mountains of Arizona. The species inhabits the Sky Islands region, a biodiversity hotspot characterized by isolated mountain ranges. As a member of Tridactylidae, it likely exhibits fossorial adaptations for burrowing in moist substrates near water.
Ephemeridae
Burrowing Mayflies
Ephemeridae is a family of large mayflies comprising approximately 150 described species distributed worldwide except Australia and Oceania. Adults range up to 35 mm in length and possess either two or three elongated caudal filaments. Many species exhibit distinctively patterned wings. The family is commonly known as "burrowing mayflies" due to the fossorial adaptations of their nymphs, which inhabit silty or sandy substrates in freshwater systems. Nymphs possess specialized morphological features including spur-like projections on foretibiae, dorsally positioned plumose and lanceolate abdominal gills, and mandibular tusks that facilitate burrowing behavior.
Eucanthus impressus
Eucanthus impressus is a species of earth-boring scarab beetle in the family Geotrupidae, subfamily Bolboceratinae. It was described by Henry Howden in 1964 and is distributed across much of North America, with records from the United States and northern Mexico. The species belongs to a group of beetles commonly known as earth-boring scarabs due to their fossorial habits.
Euctenizidae
Wafer-lid Trapdoor Spiders
Euctenizidae is a family of mygalomorph spiders elevated from subfamily status in 2012. The family contains approximately 79 described species across eight genera, including Aptostichus, Myrmekiaphila, and Promyrmekiaphila. Members are characterized by their fossorial lifestyle and construction of silk-lined burrows with distinctive trapdoors. The family is now considered more closely related to Idiopidae than to other trapdoor spider families.
Garriscaphus amplus
Garriscaphus amplus is a species of soil centipede in the family Himantariidae, described by Chamberlin in 1941. As a member of the order Geophilomorpha, it is an elongate, multi-legged myriapod adapted for burrowing through soil and leaf litter. The genus Garriscaphus is poorly known, and this species has received limited study. Available records indicate it occurs in the United States, though specific ecological details remain largely undocumented.
Geolycosa fatifera
Geolycosa fatifera is a burrowing wolf spider in the family Lycosidae, found in the United States. As a member of the genus Geolycosa, it spends the majority of its life in a deep burrow. The species was first described by Nicholas Marcellus Hentz in 1842. Like other Geolycosa species, it exhibits traits associated with fossorial (burrowing) existence, including stout front legs adapted for digging.
Geolycosa missouriensis
Missouri Burrowing Wolf Spider, Burrowing Wolf Spider, Missouri Earth Spider, Missouri Wolf Spider
Geolycosa missouriensis is a large wolf spider native to the Great Plains of North America. It is a burrowing specialist that spends most of its life in deep, silk-lined vertical burrows, emerging primarily to hunt or mate. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in size, with females reaching approximately 21 mm in body length and males 15–18 mm. Unlike wandering wolf spiders, this species employs an ambush predation strategy, detecting prey through ground vibrations from within its burrow.
Geolycosa pikei
Pike's Burrowing Wolf Spider
Geolycosa pikei is a burrowing wolf spider endemic to the United States, characterized by its cryptic sandy coloration and specialized fossorial lifestyle. The species constructs deep, silk-lined burrows in sandy substrates, primarily along seashores but also inland. It exhibits rapid wound healing through hemolymph coagulation. Females are larger (18–22 mm) than males (~14 mm). The spider is primarily nocturnal, hunting at dusk by running over sand surfaces.
Geolycosa riograndae
Geolycosa riograndae is a species of burrowing wolf spider in the family Lycosidae, first described by Wallace in 1942. It belongs to a genus characterized by deep, silk-lined burrows and fossorial habits. The species is known from the United States, with records primarily from the southwestern region including New Mexico. Like other Geolycosa species, it exhibits the elevated cephalothorax and stout digging appendages typical of burrowing wolf spiders.
Geomysaprinus xerobatis
Geomysaprinus xerobatis is a species of clown beetle in the family Histeridae. It belongs to the genus Geomysaprinus, a group specialized for association with fossorial mammals. The species epithet "xerobatis" references its documented association with desert-dwelling pocket gophers.
Geotrupidae
Earth-boring beetles, Earth-boring dung beetles, Dor beetles
Geotrupidae is a family of beetles in the order Coleoptera, commonly called earth-boring dung beetles or dor beetles. Adults excavate burrows in soil to lay eggs, typically provisioning nests with leaf litter (often moldy) rather than dung, though some species are coprophagous. The family contains over 600 species in about 30 genera across two subfamilies: Geotrupinae and Taurocerastinae. Formerly classified as a subfamily of Scarabaeidae, Geotrupidae was elevated to family status based on phylogenetic evidence. Some species communicate via stridulation, and burrows can exceed 2 meters in depth.
Glaresis
Enigmatic Scarab Beetles
Glaresis is a genus of small beetles in the family Glaresidae, commonly called "enigmatic scarab beetles." These beetles are closely related to Scarabaeidae but are placed in their own family based on distinctive morphological features. Adults are nocturnal and have been collected at lights in arid and sandy habitats worldwide except Australia. The larvae and most aspects of their biology remain unknown despite unsuccessful laboratory rearing attempts in the 1980s.
Gryllotalpa
mole crickets
Gryllotalpa is a genus of mole crickets in the family Gryllotalpidae, characterized by highly modified fossorial front legs adapted for digging. The genus contains numerous species distributed across Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Americas, with several cryptic species complexes distinguished primarily by song patterns. Species within this genus are found in diverse habitats ranging from steppe zones and wet grasslands to gardens and agricultural fields. Some species, particularly Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa, are of conservation concern in parts of Europe while also being agricultural pests in other regions.
Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa
European mole cricket
Gryllotalpa gryllotalpa, the European mole cricket, is a subterranean insect native to the Western Palaearctic and introduced to the eastern United States. It is characterized by fossorial forelegs adapted for digging, velvety body covering, and a subterranean lifestyle. The species is now understood to represent a cryptic species complex distinguishable by song patterns. In the United Kingdom, it is legally protected and considered endangered due to dramatic range contraction.
Halonoproctidae
Saddle-legged Trapdoor Spiders
Halonoproctidae is a family of mygalomorph spiders elevated from subfamily status in 2018 based on molecular phylogenetic studies that demonstrated Ctenizidae was paraphyletic. The family includes six genera and approximately 145 species of trapdoor spiders distributed across North and Central America, the Caribbean, southern Europe, North Africa, Asia, and Australasia. These spiders construct silk-lined burrows with trapdoors and are characterized by medium to large body size, somber coloration, and distinctive morphological features including sigillae on the sternum and modified spines on the legs.
Hebestatis theveneti
Thevenet's Trapdoor Spider
Hebestatis theveneti is a species of cork-lid trapdoor spider in the family Halonoproctidae. It is native to the United States and constructs burrows sealed with camouflaged, hinged trapdoors. The species is one of several trapdoor spiders maintained in research collections for study of arachnid behavior and systematics.
Hemiphileurus illatus
Lesser Triceratops Beetle
Hemiphileurus illatus is a rhinoceros beetle in the subfamily Dynastinae, known as the lesser triceratops beetle. Adults are black, 19–25 mm long, with a pitted exoskeleton and two cephalic horns—smaller in females. Unlike its congener Phileurus truncatus, it lacks a third horn. The species is native to the southwestern United States and is attracted to UV light.
Heteroceridae
Variegated Mud-loving Beetles
Heteroceridae, commonly known as variegated mud-loving beetles, are a family of small, dorsoventrally depressed beetles inhabiting shorelines worldwide. Approximately 250 species are recognized globally, with highest diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. The family exhibits remarkable phenotypic uniformity in external morphology, making species identification difficult without examination of male genitalia. These beetles construct shallow tunnels in damp soils and have been documented on every continent except Antarctica.
Hydrocanthus regius
Hydrocanthus regius is a species of burrowing water beetle in the family Noteridae, described by Young in 1953. The genus Hydrocanthus comprises small aquatic beetles adapted to burrowing in muddy substrates. Species in this genus are found across North America. Very few observations of H. regius exist in public databases, suggesting it is either genuinely rare, under-recorded, or restricted to specific habitats.
Isoplastus fossor
Isoplastus fossor is a species of small carrion beetle in the family Leiodidae, first described by George Henry Horn in 1880. The species is known from eastern North America, with records extending from southern Canada through the eastern and central United States. The specific epithet 'fossor' (Latin for 'digger') suggests fossorial habits, though detailed behavioral observations remain limited. Like other members of Leiodidae, this species is likely associated with decomposing organic matter.
Lacunicambarus diogenes
devil crayfish, devil crawfish
Lacunicambarus diogenes, commonly known as the devil crayfish or devil crawfish, is a primary burrowing crayfish native to eastern North America. This species constructs and inhabits burrows in wet, muddy terrestrial habitats rather than living in permanent surface water. Its burrowing activities create refugia used by numerous other species, including documented use by eastern cicada killer wasps (Sphecius speciosus) as brooding habitat. The species ranges across the Atlantic Coastal Plain and Piedmont ecoregion from New Jersey to Georgia, with disjunct populations in Louisiana.
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malkini
Leiopsammodius malkini is a species of aphodiine dung beetle described by Cartwright in 1946. It is one of approximately 50 species in the genus Leiopsammodius, a group of small scarab beetles commonly known as psammodiines or sand-loving dung beetles. The species is documented from the Nearctic region, with confirmed records from Florida, USA. Like other members of the tribe Psammodiini, it is associated with sandy habitats.
Melanaethus
Melanaethus is a genus of burrowing true bugs in the family Cydnidae, established by Uhler in 1876. The genus contains approximately 12–15 described species. Members are characterized by fossorial (burrowing) adaptations typical of the family. At least one species, Melanaethus crenatus, has been documented with detailed immature stages and seed-related behaviors.
Melanaethus robustus
Melanaethus robustus is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, first described by Uhler in 1877. As a member of the burrowing bug family, it possesses adaptations for subterranean life, including fossorial legs. The species is known from North America, though specific details of its biology and ecology remain poorly documented in the available literature.
Melanaethus uhleri
Melanaethus uhleri is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, order Hemiptera. The genus Melanaethus belongs to the burrowing bug family Cydnidae, a group of true bugs adapted for digging in soil and associated with roots of plants. Species in this genus are typically found in the Nearctic region. As with other cydnids, M. uhleri likely exhibits subterranean habits and feeds on plant roots, though specific biological details for this species remain poorly documented in the accessible literature.
Mycotrupes cartwrighti
Cartwright's Mycotrupes
Mycotrupes cartwrighti is an earth-boring scarab beetle in the family Geotrupidae, described by Olson and Hubbell in 1954. The species is endemic to the southeastern United States, with confirmed records from Florida and Georgia. Like other members of its genus, it is a fossorial beetle adapted to burrowing in sandy soils. The common name honors American entomologist John B. Cartwright.
Mycotrupes retusus
Sandhills Earth-boring Scarab Beetle
Mycotrupes retusus is a species of earth-boring scarab beetle in the family Geotrupidae. It is endemic to the sandhills region of the southeastern United States, specifically North Carolina and South Carolina. The species is poorly known, with only eight documented observations on iNaturalist and minimal published biological information. As a member of the Geotrupidae, it likely exhibits fossorial behavior typical of the family.
Mygalomorphae
Mygalomorphs, Orthognatha
Mygalomorphae is one of three major lineages of living spiders, comprising over 3,000 species across 32 families. Members include tarantulas, trapdoor spiders, and Australian funnel-web spiders. They are characterized by downward-pointing chelicerae, two pairs of book lungs, and often large body sizes with exceptional longevity—some individuals live 25 years or more. The group exhibits remarkable morphological conservatism across its global distribution.
Myrmecodesmus
A genus of small-bodied polydesmid millipedes in the family Pyrgodesmidae. Established by Silvestri in 1910 with a myrmecophilous species from central Veracruz, Mexico. The genus has undergone extensive taxonomic revision, with numerous genera synonymized under it by Shear (1977). Currently includes at least 28 species distributed from Mexico through South America and into the Caribbean.
Myrmekiaphila
Ant-loving trapdoor spiders
Myrmekiaphila is a genus of mygalomorph trapdoor spiders in the family Euctenizidae, endemic to the southeastern United States. The genus was first described by G.F. Atkinson in 1886 and has undergone several taxonomic revisions, most recently placed in Euctenizidae in 2012. These spiders construct subterranean silk-lined burrows with silken-soil trap doors, and some species uniquely build side chambers closed by secondary trap doors. The genus name derives from Greek roots meaning 'ant-loving,' referencing their frequent association with ant nests.
Myzininae
Myzininae is a subfamily of aculeate wasps within the family Thynnidae (formerly placed in Tiphiidae). The subfamily is best known through the genus Myzinum, which exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism. Females are robust, fossorial parasitoids of scarab beetle grubs, while males are slender, non-stinging, and frequently observed on flowers. Species in this subfamily are found primarily in the Nearctic region, with ten recognized species north of Mexico.
Nemesiidae
Tubetrapdoor and Wishbone Spiders, wishbone spiders
Nemesiidae is a family of mygalomorph spiders first described by Eugène Simon in 1889 and elevated to family status in 1985, having previously been considered part of Dipluridae. The family comprises relatively large, darkly colored spiders with elongated bodies and robust legs, commonly known as wishbone spiders due to the distinctive shape of their burrows. Members are primarily fossorial, constructing silk-lined burrows often equipped with hinged trapdoors for ambush predation. The family includes ten genera and approximately 195 species distributed across diverse habitats including coastal sands, forests, and mountainous regions on multiple continents.
Neocurtilla
northern mole crickets
Neocurtilla is a genus of mole crickets in the family Gryllotalpidae, comprising approximately seven described species distributed primarily in North, Central, and South America. Species within this genus are fossorial insects adapted for burrowing, with enlarged forelegs modified for digging. The genus includes notable species such as Neocurtilla hexadactyla, commonly known as the northern mole cricket, which has been studied for its unique chromosome segregation mechanisms. Members of this genus are of interest in agricultural contexts due to their potential as pests and their associations with natural pathogens.
Neoscapteriscus
mole crickets
Neoscapteriscus is a genus of two-clawed mole crickets (Gryllotalpidae) containing at least 23 described species. Members are subterranean insects with fossorial forelegs adapted for tunneling. Several species are significant turfgrass and pasture pests in the Americas, including the tawny mole cricket (N. vicinus) and southern mole cricket (N. borellii). The genus was established by Cadena-Castañeda in 2015, separating these species from the related genus Scapteriscus.
Neoscapteriscus borellii
Southern Mole Cricket
Neoscapteriscus borellii, commonly known as the southern mole cricket, is a fossorial orthopteran native to South America that has become an established invasive pest in the southeastern United States since its introduction around 1900. Unlike its herbivorous relatives, this species is primarily predatory, feeding on insects and earthworms. Its extensive tunneling in sandy soils damages lawns, pastures, golf courses, and cultivated plants by loosening soil, uprooting vegetation, and promoting desiccation.
Neotridactylus
Pygmy mole crickets, Pygmy sand crickets, Pygmy mole grasshoppers
Neotridactylus is a genus of pygmy mole crickets in the family Tridactylidae, containing approximately 16 described species distributed across the Americas. These insects are small, fossorial orthopterans that inhabit sandy margins of aquatic habitats. Despite their common name, they are more closely related to short-horned grasshoppers than to true mole crickets. The genus was established by Günther in 1972.
Neotridactylus apicialis
larger pygmy mole grasshopper, larger pygmy locust, larger sand cricket, larger pygmy mole cricket
Neotridactylus apicialis is a minute orthopteran in the family Tridactylidae, one of only two species currently recognized in North America. Adults measure 5.5–10 mm and possess disproportionately enlarged hind legs adapted for powerful jumping. The species inhabits sandy margins of freshwater bodies, where it constructs shallow burrows and exhibits fossorial behavior. Despite their common name, pygmy mole crickets are more closely related to short-horned grasshoppers than to true mole crickets (Gryllotalpidae).
Nyctunguis
Nyctunguis is a genus of soil-dwelling centipedes in the family Schendylidae, order Geophilomorpha. These elongate, multi-legged arthropods inhabit subterranean environments. The genus was established by Chamberlin in 1914 and contains multiple described species.
Omus californicus intermedius
Intermediate Night-stalking Tiger Beetle
Omus californicus intermedius is a subspecies of night-stalking tiger beetle endemic to western North America. As a member of the genus Omus, it exhibits nocturnal adult behavior and fossorial larval habits. The subspecies was described by Leng in 1902 and occurs in the intermediate zone between the ranges of the nominate subspecies and O. c. angustocylindricus. Adults are rarely encountered due to their nocturnal activity pattern and cryptic behavior, making larval burrows the most reliable indicator of local presence.
Omus californicus lecontei
Omus californicus lecontei is a subspecies of night-stalking tiger beetle in the family Cicindelidae. As a member of the genus Omus, it is characterized by nocturnal adult activity and fossorial larval habits. The subspecies is part of the taxonomically challenging Omus californicus complex, which has historically caused confusion with related taxa such as Omus submetallicus. Adults are typically encountered through targeted searching of larval burrows rather than general collecting methods.
Onycholipini
Onycholipini is a tribe of weevils in the subfamily Cossoninae, established by Alonso-Zarazaga and Lyal in 1999. The tribe includes at least four genera—Dipnotyphlus, Hauseriola, Leipommata, and Onycholips—plus Halorhynchus, which was transferred from Pentarthrini. Members are specialized for fossorial and psammophilous (sand-dwelling) lifestyles, with adaptations including reduced or absent eyes, compact body form, and modified legs for burrowing. The tribe has a disjunct distribution across coastal regions of the Mediterranean, Macaronesia, Arabia, and Australasia, with some species exhibiting transoceanic dispersal capabilities.
Pangaeus
burrower bugs
Pangaeus is a genus of burrower bugs in the family Cydnidae (Hemiptera), comprising approximately 14 described species. Members are fossorial insects adapted for subterranean life, with species distributed across the Americas. The genus includes significant agricultural pests, most notably P. bilineatus, which damages peanut crops in the southeastern United States. Species exhibit morphological adaptations for burrowing, including stout, spiny forelegs.
Pangaeus tuberculipes
Pangaeus tuberculipes is a burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, described by Froeschner in 1960. Like other members of its genus, it is a soil-associated true bug with fossorial (burrowing) habits. The species is known from limited observations in North and Middle America.
Paraclivina sulcipennis
Paraclivina sulcipennis is a ground beetle in the family Carabidae, subfamily Scaritinae. The species was originally described by Putzeys in 1867 under the genus Clivina and has since been reclassified to Paraclivina. It is recorded from the United States and North America. As with other members of the tribe Clivinini, it is a small, fossorial ground beetle adapted to burrowing in soil.
Pimeliinae
Pimeliinae is a subfamily of darkling beetles (Tenebrionidae) comprising multiple tribes distributed across arid and semi-arid regions worldwide. The subfamily includes notable groups such as the Sepidiini of the Afrotropical Realm, whose members Ocnodes and Psammodes are known as "toktokkies" for their distinctive tapping communication behavior. Several genera exhibit morphological adaptations for fossorial life, including conical peg sensilla on tibiae. The subfamily encompasses both flightless and flying species, with some of the largest tenebrionid species such as Stridulomus sulcicollis (~80 mm).
Pleocoma badia
rain beetle
Pleocoma badia is a species of rain beetle in the family Pleocomidae, first described by Fall in 1917. It is found in North America and includes two recognized subspecies: P. b. badia and P. b. hirsuta. Rain beetles are notable for their emergence during rainfall events and fossorial (burrowing) lifestyle.
Pleocoma badia hirsuta
Pleocoma badia hirsuta is a subspecies of rain beetle in the family Pleocomidae, described by Davis in 1934. Like other Pleocomidae, adults are active during autumn rains and exhibit strong sexual dimorphism with flightless females. The subspecific epithet 'hirsuta' suggests increased hairiness relative to the nominate subspecies. It is one of several subspecies within the P. badia species complex found in western North America.
Pleocoma behrensii
rain beetle
Pleocoma behrensii is a species of rain beetle endemic to the Pacific Coast of North America. Rain beetles in this genus are known for their flightless females and their emergence during the first heavy autumn rains. The species belongs to a relict family with limited distribution and specialized ecological associations.
Pleocoma crinita
rain beetle
Pleocoma crinita is a species of rain beetle described by Linsley in 1938. It is one of approximately 30 species in the genus Pleocoma, a group of large, fossorial scarab beetles endemic to western North America. The species is known from Washington State and shares the family-wide trait of adult emergence triggered by rainfall.
Pleocoma dubitabilis leachi
Pleocoma dubitabilis leachi is a subspecies of rain beetle in the family Pleocomidae, described by Linsley in 1938. It belongs to a genus of scarab beetles endemic to western North America, commonly known for their autumn emergence following rainfall. Members of this genus are characterized by strong sexual dimorphism and fossorial habits. The subspecies designation indicates geographic variation within P. dubitabilis.
Pleocoma hirticollis vandykei
Pleocoma hirticollis vandykei is a subspecies of rain beetle in the family Pleocomidae. It is one of several subspecies within the species P. hirticollis, which belongs to a genus of scarab beetles endemic to western North America. Members of Pleocoma are known for their fossorial habits and adult emergence during autumn rains. This subspecies was described by Linsley in 1938 and is currently accepted as valid.
Pleocoma oregonensis
Oregon rain beetle
Pleocoma oregonensis is a rain beetle in the family Pleocomidae, endemic to the Pacific Northwest region of North America. As with other members of this family, it exhibits autumnal emergence patterns correlated with rainfall events. The species was described by Leach in 1933 and is one of approximately 30 described species in the genus Pleocoma.
Pleocoma sonomae
rain beetle
Pleocoma sonomae is a species of rain beetle described by Linsley in 1935. Like other members of the family Pleocomidae, it is a large, fossorial scarab beetle. The species is native to California and is one of approximately 30 described species in the genus Pleocoma. Rain beetles are known for their emergence following rainfall events, particularly in autumn and winter.
Poecilopompilus
spider wasps
Poecilopompilus is a genus of fossorial spider wasps in the family Pompilidae, distributed throughout the New World. These wasps are notable for their Müllerian mimicry of social paper wasps (Polistes), sharing similar yellow and black or reddish-brown color patterns. Females hunt orbweaver spiders (Araneidae), paralyzing them with a sting and transporting them to underground burrows where an egg is laid on each spider. The genus contains approximately 37 recognized species, with only a few extending into the United States.
Poecilopompilus algidus
Spider Wasp
Poecilopompilus algidus is a spider wasp (family Pompilidae) widespread across the Americas, from southern Canada to Argentina. The species exhibits remarkable geographic variation in coloration due to Müllerian mimicry of sympatric wasps—resembling paper wasps (Polistes) in the south and dark spider wasps (Anoplius) in the north. Females hunt orb-weaver spiders (Araneidae) to provision underground nests, paralyzing prey with a sting and dragging it backwards to burrow sites in sandy soils. The species includes five recognized subspecies with varying distributions across North and South America.
Promyrmekiaphila
Promyrmekiaphila is a genus of mygalomorph trapdoor spiders endemic to California. First described by Schenkel in 1950, the genus currently contains three species: P. clathrata, P. winnemem, and P. korematsui. These spiders construct silk-lined burrows with wafer-like trapdoor lids and exhibit strong geographic population structuring with deep genetic divergence, particularly within P. clathrata. The genus is notable for morphological conservation despite considerable genetic differentiation, representing a cryptic species complex.
Psammodius pierottii
A small scarab beetle in the subfamily Aphodiinae, described from the Mediterranean region in 1979. The species belongs to a genus of sand-dwelling beetles typically associated with sandy substrates. It has been introduced to North America, with established populations in Quebec, Canada.
Pterocheilus
Pterocheilus is a genus of fossorial mason wasps in the family Vespidae, subfamily Eumeninae. Unlike most potter wasps that nest in pre-existing cavities or construct free-standing mud nests, species in this genus excavate burrows in soil or sand. The genus exhibits its greatest diversity in southwestern North America, with approximately 40 species recognized in the region. Females possess specialized morphological adaptations for digging, including tarsal rakes on the forelegs and a psammophore—long setae on the labial palps used to transport excavated soil away from the nest entrance.
Pterocheilus denticulatus
Pterocheilus denticulatus is a solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, characterized by fossorial nesting behavior in sandy or soft soils. Females excavate burrows using specialized morphological adaptations including a tarsal rake on the front feet and a psammophore—a "beard" of long setae on the palps used to transport excavated soil away from the nest entrance. The species was described by de Saussure in 1855 and belongs to a genus of approximately 40 North American species, most diverse in the southwestern United States.
Pterocheilus diversicolor
Pterocheilus diversicolor is a species of solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, described by Rohwer in 1911. Like other members of the genus Pterocheilus, females are fossorial, excavating burrows in soil or sand using specialized tarsal spines and a psammophore (beard-like setae on the mouthparts) to carry excavated material away from the nest entrance. The species belongs to a genus of approximately 40 North American species with greatest diversity in the southwestern United States. Specific biological details for P. diversicolor remain poorly documented compared to better-studied congeners such as P. quinquefasciatus.
Pterocheilus hirsutipennis
A solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, Pterocheilus hirsutipennis is one of approximately 40 North American species in this genus. Like other Pterocheilus, females are fossorial, excavating subterranean burrows in sandy or soft soils rather than using pre-existing cavities or building mud nests. The species was described by Bohart in 1940 and is part of a genus whose members are most diverse in the southwestern United States. Most species biology remains poorly documented.
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gcalculation-performingcomputation-conductingmeasurement-takingquantification-conductingenumeration-performingcounting-conductingtallying-makingaccounting-keepingreckoning-performingcalculation-makingapproximation-providingguess-hazardingconjecture-offeringspeculation-engaginghypothesis-proposingtheory-constructingmodel-buildingframework-developingstructure-creatingsystem-designingarchitecture-developinginfrastructure-buildingfoundation-layinggroundwork-preparingbasis-establishingground-clearingsite-preparinglocation-selectingposition-choosingplacement-determiningarrangement-decidingdisposition-settlingdistribution-establishingallocation-makingassignment-givingdesignation-makingappointment-fixingscheduling-arrangingplanning-conductingorganizing-performingcoordinating-undertakingmanaging-conductingdirecting-performingleading-undertakingguiding-performingsteering-conductingpiloting-performingnavigating-undertakingsailing-conductingflying-performingdriving-undertakingriding-performingwalking-conductingrunning-performingjumping-undertakingleaping-performinghopping-conductingskipping-performingdancing-undertakingmoving-performingtraveling-conductingjourneying-performingvoyaging-undertakingexploring-conductingdiscovering-performingfinding-undertakinglocating-performingidentifying-conductingrecognizing-performingknowing-achievingunderstanding-attainingcomprehending-achievinggrasping-attainingseizing-achievingcatching-performingcapturing-undertakingsecuring-performingobtaining-achievingacquiring-attaininggaining-achievingearning-performingwinning-undertakingsucceeding-performingtriumphing-achievingvictory-attainingconquest-achievingdomination-attainingmastery-achievingcontrol-attainingcommand-achievingdirection-attainingleadership-achievingheadship-attainingcaptaincy-achievingskippering-attainingpiloting-achievinghelming-attainingsteering-achievingguiding-attainingdirecting-achievingmanaging-attainingadministering-achievinggoverning-attainingruling-achievingreigning-attainingcommanding-achievingordering-attainingdictating-achievingprescribing-attainingmandating-achievingrequiring-attainingdemanding-achievingrequesting-attainingasking-achievinginquiring-attainingquestioning-achievinginterrogating-attainingexamining-achievinginvestigating-attainingexploring-achievingprobing-attainingsearching-achievingseeking-attainingpursuing-achievingchasing-attaininghunting-achievingstalking-attainingtracking-achievingtrailing-attainingfollowing-achievingpursuing-attainingrunning-achievingracing-attainingcompeting-achievingcontending-attainingstruggling-achievingstriving-attainingendeavoring-achievingattempting-attainingtrying-achievingendeavoring-attainingexerting-achievingefforting-attainingworking-achievinglaboring-attainingtoiling-achievingslaving-attainingdrudging-achievingplodding-attainingpersevering-achievingpersisting-attainingcontinuing-achievingmaintaining-attainingsustaining-achievingupholding-attaining,Pterocheilus mirandus
Pterocheilus mirandus is a solitary mason wasp in the family Vespidae, subfamily Eumeninae, described by Cresson in 1897. Like other members of the genus Pterocheilus, this species is fossorial, excavating burrows in soil rather than using pre-existing cavities or constructing mud nests. The genus is most diverse in the southwestern United States, with approximately forty North American species. Most Pterocheilus species are poorly known biologically due to their secretive nesting habits and effective concealment of burrow entrances.
Pterocheilus pedicellatus
Pterocheilus pedicellatus is a species of solitary mason wasp in the subfamily Eumeninae, described by Bohart in 1940. Like other members of the genus Pterocheilus, this species is fossorial, excavating burrows in soil rather than constructing above-ground mud nests or using pre-existing cavities. The genus is most diverse in the southwestern United States, with approximately forty North American species. Most Pterocheilus species are poorly known biologically, though related species provision their burrows with paralyzed caterpillars as food for their larvae.
Pterocheilus pimorum
Pterocheilus pimorum is a solitary mason wasp in the family Vespidae, subfamily Eumeninae. Like other members of its genus, it is fossorial, excavating burrows in soil rather than using pre-existing cavities or building free-standing mud nests. The species was described by Viereck in 1908. Very little is known about its specific biology, though it likely shares the general characteristics of the genus: females dig burrows using modified forelegs with stout spines (tarsal rakes) and a psammophore (beard of setae on the mouthparts) for transporting excavated soil.
Pterocheilus quinquefasciatus
Pterocheilus quinquefasciatus is a fossorial solitary mason wasp in the family Vespidae, subfamily Eumeninae. Females excavate burrows in sandy or soft soil rather than using pre-existing cavities or building mud nests. The species is relatively large for the genus, with females measuring 13–16 mm in body length. It has been documented using caterpillars of Heliothis phloxiphaga (Darker Spotted Straw Moth) as prey in Badlands National Park, South Dakota, with females paralyzing victims and carrying them in flight to the burrow.
Pterocheilus sinopis
Pterocheilus sinopis is a species of solitary mason wasp in the family Vespidae, subfamily Eumeninae. It is one of approximately 40 species in the genus Pterocheilus, a group characterized by fossorial (burrow-digging) nesting behavior. The species was described by Richard M. Bohart in 1999. Like other members of its genus, females are equipped with specialized anatomical adaptations for excavating soil burrows, including a psammophore (a "beard" of setae on the palps) for transporting soil away from nest sites.
Rhachocnemis
sand-treader crickets
Rhachocnemis is a genus of sand-treader crickets in the family Rhaphidophoridae. The genus was described by Caudell in 1916 and contains one described species, R. validus. These crickets are adapted to sandy desert environments, where they burrow through loose substrate. They are part of the diverse camel cricket lineage, though specialized for psammophilic (sand-dwelling) habitats.
Rhytidoporus
Rhytidoporus is a genus of burrowing bugs established by Uhler in 1877. The genus contains three described species: R. barberi, R. compactus, and R. indentatus. Members of this genus belong to the family Cydnidae, a group of true bugs adapted for fossorial life.
Rhytidoporus indentatus
Rhytidoporus indentatus is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, first described by Uhler in 1877. As a member of Cydnidae, it possesses fossorial adaptations for subterranean life. The species has been documented across three distinct biogeographic regions: the Caribbean, North America, and Oceania, with confirmed presence in Hawaii.
Scaptocoris castaneus
Scaptocoris castaneus is a burrowing bug species in the family Cydnidae, characterized by fossorial adaptations for subterranean life. The species occurs across North and South America. As a member of the burrowing bug family, it possesses morphological specializations for digging and subterranean existence.
Scarites subterraneus
Big-headed Ground Beetle, Pedunculate Ground Beetle, Tunneling Large Ground Beetle
Scarites subterraneus is a large ground beetle in the family Carabidae, commonly known as the big-headed ground beetle. Adults measure 15.0–30.0 mm in length and possess distinctive large mandibles with two teeth, adapted for capturing and consuming prey. The species is native to the Caribbean, Central America, and North America, and has been introduced to Europe. It is primarily nocturnal, spending daylight hours concealed under logs, rocks, soil, and leaf litter. Molecular studies have identified two subspecies: S. subterraneus nebraskensis and S. subterraneus arkansensis.
Schizogenius chiricahuanus
Schizogenius chiricahuanus is a ground beetle species in the family Carabidae, described by Whitehead in 1972. It belongs to the tribe Clivinini, a group of small to medium-sized carabids often associated with sandy or loose soil habitats. The species epithet references the Chiricahua Mountains of southeastern Arizona, suggesting a geographic association with this sky island range. Like other members of Schizogenius, it likely exhibits fossorial (burrowing) adaptations.
Scorpiones
scorpions
Scorpiones is an ancient order of predatory arachnids, representing the oldest known terrestrial metazoans with fossil records dating back approximately 435 million years. Members are characterized by a pair of large pedipalps modified into grasping pincers, four pairs of walking legs, and a segmented metasoma (tail) terminating in a telson bearing a venomous stinger. Scorpions are the only arachnids that give birth to live young, with females carrying offspring on their backs until their first molt. They exhibit a unique ability to fluoresce under ultraviolet light due to fluorescent compounds in their exoskeletons.
Selenophorus discopunctatus
Selenophorus discopunctatus is a ground beetle species in the family Carabidae, first described by Dejean in 1829. The species has been recorded in both North America and parts of South America and the Caribbean, though published sources conflict on its precise range. It belongs to the genus Selenophorus, a group of nocturnal ground beetles characterized by their fossorial (burrowing) adaptations. Available documentation is limited, with few observational records.
Solifugae
solifuges, camel spiders, sun spiders, wind scorpions, solpugids
Solifugae is an order of arachnids comprising over 1,200 described species in approximately 147 genera and 16 families. These animals are neither true spiders nor scorpions, though they share superficial similarities with both. They are characterized by exceptional speed, large powerful chelicerae used for predation and stridulation, and a preference for arid habitats. The order is divided into two suborders: Australosolifugae (predominantly Southern Hemisphere) and Boreosolifugae (predominantly Northern Hemisphere).
Sphecius convallis
Pacific cicada killer, Pacific cicada-killer wasp
Sphecius convallis, the Pacific cicada killer, is a large solitary wasp in the family Crabronidae. Females hunt cicadas, paralyze them with venom, and transport them to underground burrows as food for their larvae. The species occurs in arid and semi-arid regions west of the 100th meridian in North America, with populations studied intensively in Arizona mine tailings. Research has documented complex behavioral ecology including kleptoparasitism, thermal regulation strategies, and sex-specific provisioning behaviors.
Sphex tepanecus
Sphex tepanecus is a species of thread-waisted digger wasp in the family Sphecidae. It is a large solitary wasp known from the western United States, with records from Arizona, Colorado, and potentially Idaho. Like other members of the genus Sphex, it constructs subterranean nests and provisions them with paralyzed prey for its larvae. The species was first described by de Saussure in 1867.
Sphodros
purseweb spiders
Sphodros is a genus of mygalomorph spiders in the family Atypidae, native to North America. The genus was reinstated in 1980 after being treated as a synonym of Atypus for over a century. Seven species are recognized, distributed across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. These spiders are known for constructing distinctive purse-shaped webs attached to tree trunks and root systems.
Steniolia
sand wasps
Steniolia is a genus of solitary sand wasps in the family Crabronidae, containing approximately 15 described species. All North American species are western in distribution, with four species extending only as far north as Mexico. Females are fossorial, constructing single-celled burrows in dry, powdery soil to provision with paralyzed flies. The genus is notable for ornate coloration, elongated mouthparts adapted for nectar feeding, and distinctive nightly sleeping clusters formed by both sexes.
Stenomorphus sinaloae
Stenomorphus sinaloae is a ground beetle in the family Carabidae, described by Darlington in 1936. It belongs to the S. sinaloae species group, which also includes S. penicillatus. The species exhibits allometric trends in prothorax shape and hind tibia proportions, with evolutionary trends associated with burrowing behavior and sexual selection.
Thynnidae
thynnid wasps, flower wasps, thynnid flower wasps
Thynnidae is a family of solitary wasps formerly classified within Tiphiidae but now recognized as a distinct lineage based on molecular and morphological studies. Adults feed on nectar and function as minor pollinators, with some species involved in specialized pollination systems including orchid sexual deception. Larvae are parasitoids, primarily attacking scarab beetle larvae (Scarabaeoidea), though some species parasitize tiger beetle larvae (Cicindelinae) and other hosts including bees and ants. The family exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism: in many subfamilies, females are wingless and fossorial while males are winged and aerial.
Ticrania
Ticrania is a genus of planthoppers in the family Dictyopharidae, described by Emeljanov in 2006. It belongs to the tribe Orgeriini, a group of flightless, often subterranean planthoppers with fossorial (burrowing) forelegs. Members of this genus are poorly known and likely inhabit sandy or loose soil environments associated with plant roots.
Tiphiidae
Tiphiid Flower Wasps, Tiphiid Wasps, Flower Wasps
Tiphiidae is a family of large, solitary wasps whose larvae are parasitoids of beetle larvae, particularly scarab beetles (Scarabaeoidea). The family has undergone significant taxonomic revision, with former subfamilies now reclassified as the separate family Thynnidae. Some members, particularly in the subfamily Brachycistidinae, exhibit striking sexual dimorphism: males are winged and aerial, while females are wingless and fossorial, hunting ground-dwelling beetle larvae.
Tominotus unisetosus
burrowing bug
Tominotus unisetosus is a species of burrowing bug in the family Cydnidae, first described by Froeschner in 1960. As a member of the burrowing bug family, it is adapted for fossorial life in soil or leaf litter. The species occurs in both Central America and North America.
Tortopsis puella
Tortopsis puella is a species of burrowing mayfly in the family Polymitarcyidae, originally described by Pictet in 1843. It belongs to a genus characterized by fossorial (burrowing) larvae that inhabit sandy or muddy substrates in freshwater environments. The species is known from the Nearctic region, with records from North America.
Zygona duplex
Zygona duplex is a species of soil-dwelling centipede in the family Geophilidae, described by Chamberlin in 1960. It belongs to the order Geophilomorpha, which comprises the most diverse group of centipedes characterized by their elongated, worm-like bodies with numerous leg pairs. The species is known from the United States.