Coastal Tiger Beetle
Ellipsoptera hamata
This record describes Ellipsoptera hamata (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2010 Common at lights
Identification notes
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2010
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Adephaga
- Family
- Carabidae (Ground Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Cicindelinae
- Tribe
- Cicindelini
- Genus
- Ellipsoptera (Ellipsed-winged Tiger Beetles)
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
tidal marshes, coastal mudflats, bare or sparsely vegetated mud near water edge
Geographic Range
Gulf Coast: s.FL to s.Mex. - Map
Seasonal Activity
mostly Apr-Oct
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: hamata = 'hooked'
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ellipsoptera hamata. Species-specific details appear above.
Group overview
Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.
Ecological role of the group
Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.
Economic and practical significance of the group
Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.
Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.
Photos of Coastal Tiger Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Gretchen Grammer; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , ceiseman , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Coastal Tiger Beetle
What is Coastal Tiger Beetle?
Coastal Tiger Beetle (Ellipsoptera hamata) is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Coastal Tiger Beetle?
9-13 mm
How do you identify Coastal Tiger Beetle?
Det. M. A. Quinn, 2010
Where is Coastal Tiger Beetle found?
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Habitat | tidal marshes, coastal mudflats, bare or sparsely vegetated mud near water edge |
| Range | Gulf Coast: s.FL to s.Mex. - Map |
When is Coastal Tiger Beetle active?
Coastal Tiger Beetle: seasonal activity - mostly Apr-Oct.