Cicindelidae

Original illustrated atlases for beetle ID

(Tiger Beetles)

Tiger beetles, belonging to the family Cicindelidae, are among the fastest-running insects in the world. Known for their remarkable speed, tiger beetles can reach speeds of up to 5.6 miles per hour, making them faster than many other insects and even comparable to the top speed of some small mammals. This rapid running ability allows them to hunt down prey with astonishing efficiency. The family Cicindelidae is home to numerous species, including the manticora tiger beetle and the six-spotted tiger beetle.

Tiger beetles are carnivorous and have a diet primarily consisting of other insects, which they capture using their quick running ability. The tiger beetle's prey includes ants, flies, and other small insects. They have strong mandibles that help them devour their catch. Some species, such as the green tiger beetles, are also known to hunt in sandy or forested habitats, where their prey is abundant. These beetles are often found in areas like beaches, woodlands, and even along roadsides.

The scientific names of tiger beetles vary depending on the species. For example, the water tiger beetle has a distinct scientific name, as does the six-spotted tiger beetle. The Cicindelidae family includes a wide range of species, each with unique traits, such as size, coloration, and habitat preferences. The tiger beetle species found in the UK, for example, may differ significantly from those found in Australia or other parts of the world. The Australian tiger beetle is particularly well-known for its speed and agility in running, and its running habits can sometimes seem almost like a blur.

Many tiger beetles, such as the Manticore tiger beetle, are also available for sale in the insect trade. If you're interested in owning one, you can find tiger beetles for sale online or in specialty insect shops. These beetles make interesting pets due to their dynamic behavior, particularly their running patterns and their impressive ability to chase down prey. However, before purchasing, it is important to understand that tiger beetles are predators and need a suitable environment to thrive.

Overview of Cicindelidae

The Cicindelidae, commonly known as tiger beetles, are a family of beetles within the order Coleoptera and suborder Adephaga. They are recognized for their distinctive long, sickle-shaped mandibles, long legs, and large eyes, with a head wider than the thorax.

Characteristics and Distribution

Distribution: Tiger beetles have a worldwide distribution, excluding Antarctica and Tasmania. They are most diverse in warmer regions, with North East India hosting over 123 species.

Habitat: They are often found near bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, and sea shores, and in sandy or clay soils.

Species Diversity: There are over 1,000 named species, with the genus Cicindela containing approximately 850 species. However, the tribe Cicindelini alone includes over 2,000 described species across more than 90 genera.

Life Cycle and Behavior

Adults: Most tiger beetles are diurnal and actively predatory, feeding on other invertebrates. They are capable flyers and can run quickly; for example, Cicindela campestris can run at about 2.25 km/h.

Larvae: The larvae are eruciform (caterpillar-like) and live in tunnels they construct in soil or other substrates. They feed on insects that come close to their burrows, using powerful jaws and dorsal hooks to capture and retain prey.

Tribes

The family Cicindelidae is divided into several tribes, including Cicindelini, Collyridini, Ctenostomatini, Manticorini, Megacephalini, and Oxycheilini.

Ecological Role

Tiger beetles are important indicators of biodiversity and are studied for their potential in controlling crop pests due to their predatory nature.

Tiger beetles, despite their formidable hunting prowess, generally pose no threat to humans. Their bites, while potentially painful if provoked, are not venomous and do not contain harmful toxins. Certain species, such as the six-spotted tiger beetle, are completely non-poisonous, making them safe to handle under most circumstances. However, their rapid and unpredictable movements can be startling. Their remarkable speed, comparable to a cheetah relative to their size, allows them to evade predators effectively, ensuring their survival.

Tiger beetles typically inhabit environments with sandy or loose soil, where they can burrow and hide between hunting sessions. These beetles flourish in areas that provide ample space for running and hunting. From the UK tiger beetle to the Australian species running along coastal regions, and the Manticora tiger beetle in arid environments, their habitats are as diverse as the species themselves.

In summary, tiger beetles are captivating creatures, known for their speed and voracious appetite. The diversity within the Cicindelidae family, encompassing species like the green tiger beetle and the six-spotted tiger beetle, highlights the various adaptations that have enabled them to thrive in diverse environments worldwide. Whether you're interested in global tiger beetle species, curious about their speed relative to humans, or considering acquiring them, these beetles offer endless opportunities for exploration.