Saline-habitats
Guides
Ellipsoptera
Elliptical-winged Tiger Beetles
Ellipsoptera is a genus of tiger beetles (Cicindelidae) containing approximately 13 described species restricted to North America. The genus was elevated from subgeneric status within Cicindela in 2008 based on morphological and molecular evidence. Species in this genus are generally recognizable by their relatively large eyes, long legs, and ecological association with sandy and/or saline substrates that are nearly or completely devoid of vegetation. Several species are of conservation concern, including the federally endangered Salt Creek tiger beetle (E. nevadica lincolniana) and the federally threatened Puritan tiger beetle (E. puritana).
Eunota
Saline Tiger Beetles
Eunota is a genus of tiger beetles in the family Cicindelidae, commonly known as the saline tiger beetles. The genus was established by Émile Rivalier in 1954 and contains eleven recognized species distributed in the United States and Mexico. Members of this genus are specialized for life in saline habitats including salt flats, alkaline lakes, and tidal marshes. Several species exhibit pronounced white elytral markings, with subspecies showing varying degrees of white coloration.
Hygrotini
Hygrotini is a tribe of small diving beetles in the subfamily Hydroporinae. The tribe contains approximately 137 species, most of which inhabit freshwater environments. Multiple lineages have independently evolved tolerance to saline and hypersaline conditions, with some species surviving in concentrations more than double that of seawater.