Sand-scrub
Guides
Chrysobothris seminole
Chrysobothris seminole is a metallic wood-boring beetle in the family Buprestidae, described in 2007 as part of a revision of the Chrysobothris femorata species-group. It is notable as the only member of this species-group associated with a non-woody host plant. The species has a highly restricted distribution in the southeastern United States and is considered rare, with only a few individuals documented at its type locality.
Cicindelidia highlandensis
Highlands Tiger Beetle
Cicindelidia highlandensis is one of Florida's rarest endemic tiger beetles, restricted to remnant sand scrub and pine woodland habitats on the Lake Wales Ridge in central Florida. The species has experienced severe population declines due to habitat loss, with an estimated 90% reduction and only a few sites capable of sustaining viable populations. Adults are active during summer months, displaying characteristic thermoregulatory "stilting" behavior and extreme wariness when approached. Despite its critically imperiled global status (G1), it remains unlisted by the State of Florida.
Crossidius grahami
Ohoopee Dunes Crossidius Beetle
Crossidius grahami is a longhorned beetle (Cerambycidae) described in 2013 from southern Georgia. It is restricted to a highly specific host plant, woody goldenrod (Chrysoma pauciflosculosa), a perennial asteraceous shrub of coastal sand dunes and scrub. The species was discovered incidentally when collectors reared adults from root crowns while attempting to rear a different undescribed cerambycid. Adults are found primarily on lower stems of living plants.
Odonteus floridensis
Odonteus floridensis is a species of earth-boring scarab beetle in the family Geotrupidae, described by Wallis in 1928. It is endemic to Florida, where it inhabits sandy scrub habitats. As a member of the Bolboceratinae, it is adapted for burrowing in soil.
Scleropogon floridensis
Scleropogon floridensis is a species of robber fly in the family Asilidae, described by Bromley in 1951. The genus Scleropogon comprises predatory flies characterized by their elongated bodies and distinctive leg morphology. This species is part of a group of asilids that inhabit sandy or scrub environments. As with other robber flies, it is presumed to be an aerial predator of other insects, though specific ecological details remain poorly documented.