Sand-associated
Guides
Diplotaxis lengii
Diplotaxis lengii is a small scarab beetle in the family Scarabaeidae, subfamily Melolonthinae. The genus Diplotaxis contains numerous small chafers, many of which are attracted to lights at night. This species was described by Fall in 1909 and is known from the southern United States, particularly Louisiana and Texas. Members of this genus are often observed congregating on low vegetation, apparently to intercept pheromone trails in search of mates.
Ochodaeidae
Sand-loving Scarab Beetles
Ochodaeidae is a small family of scarab beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeoidea) commonly known as sand-loving scarab beetles. The family is distributed globally and contains two subfamilies: Chaetocanthinae and Ochodaeinae. Members are distinguished by crenulated or serrated mesotibial spurs. The biology and habits of most species remain poorly known, with many collected in sandy areas at night.
Parorectis arenaria
Parorectis arenaria is a species of leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, described by Riley in 2020. The specific epithet 'arenaria' (Latin for 'of sand') suggests an association with sandy habitats. As a recently described species, detailed biological information remains limited. It belongs to a genus within the diverse leaf beetle family, whose members are primarily herbivorous and often associated with specific host plants.
Polyphylla pubescens
Eglin Uplands Scarab Beetle
Polyphylla pubescens is a rare, endemic scarab beetle restricted to the upland habitats of Eglin Air Force Base and adjacent inland areas in the Florida panhandle. Adults are moderately sized for the genus, with males measuring 17.5–19 mm and females slightly larger at 19–20 mm. The species is distinguished from congeners by a strong lateral elytral margin that extends to the base. Like other members of the genus Polyphylla, males possess greatly enlarged, fan-like antennae used to detect female sex pheromones, while females are likely flightless and remain buried in sandy substrates. The species is part of the pubescens species group within Polyphylla.
Salebriaria simpliciella
Salebriaria simpliciella is a species of snout moth in the family Pyralidae, described by Neunzig in 1988. It belongs to the genus Salebriaria, a group of small moths within the subfamily Phycitinae. The species has been documented across multiple observation platforms with over 400 records, indicating it is not uncommon in its range. Like other members of its genus, it is likely associated with dry or sandy habitats, though specific ecological details remain limited in published literature.
Schinia psamathea
A small noctuid moth in the genus Schinia, described in 2010 and endemic to the southeastern United States coastal plain. It is distinguished within its genus by unusually simple wing patterns and strong association with sandy coastal habitats. Adults fly during daylight hours in autumn and are attracted to light.
Trapezonotus arenarius
dune groundbug
Trapezonotus arenarius is a species of dirt-colored seed bug in the family Rhyparochromidae. It has a broad distribution spanning Africa, Europe and Northern Asia (excluding China), North America, and Southern Asia. The species was first described by Linnaeus in 1758. Two subspecies have been recognized: the nominate T. a. arenarius and T. a. elengantulus described by Kiritshenko and Scudder in 1973.