Ghost Tiger Beetle
Ellipsoptera lepida
This record describes Ellipsoptera lepida (species). Recorded family: Carabidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Ghost Tiger Beetle (Ellipsoptera lepida) is a species in the family Carabidae, commonly known as ground beetles, belonging to the order Coleoptera (Beetles). It is classified within the subfamily Cicindelinae, tribe Cicindelini, suborder Adephaga. This species belongs to the genus Ellipsoptera (Ellipsed-winged Tiger Beetles). Size: 9-11 mm. Active during Adults active Mar-Oct, most common Jun-Jul.
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
Seasonal Activity
Adults active Mar-Oct, most common Jun-Jul
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Overwinters as larvae and has a 2- to 3-yr life cycle . Larval burrows very deep (2-3 m)
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Ellipsoptera lepida (Dejean 1831)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Ellipsoptera lepida. 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 Ghost Tiger Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Hannah Nendick-Mason; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn , Nick Block , ceiseman , v belov
Frequently Asked Questions About Ghost Tiger Beetle
What is Ghost Tiger Beetle?
Ghost Tiger Beetle (Ellipsoptera lepida) is a species in the family Carabidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Ghost Tiger Beetle?
9-11 mm
When is Ghost Tiger Beetle active?
Ghost Tiger Beetle: seasonal activity - Adults active Mar-Oct, most common Jun-Jul.
What is the life cycle of a Ghost Tiger Beetle?
Overwinters as larvae and has a 2- to 3-yr life cycle . Larval burrows very deep (2-3 m)