Current Research Projects
1. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY OF THE CORAL PINK SAND DUNES TIGER
BEETLE - CICINDELA LIMBATA ALBISSIMA.
Annual monitoring of population, ecology and population dynamics, effects of Conservation
Agreement.
2. STATUS OF THE OLMOSA TIGER BEETLE
Conservation, distribution and abundance, taxonomic status
3. STATUS OF THE MESCELARO SANDS TIGER BEETLE
Conservation, distribution and abundance, threats
4. THE TIGER BEETLES OF NEW MEXICO
5. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY OF THE NORTHEASTERN BEACH TIGER BEETLE
A. TRANSLOCATION OF BEETLES FROM VIRGINIA TO SANDY HOOK, NJ. Progress in establishment of a population of C. dorsalis at Sandy Hook, NJ.
B. SHORELINE IMPACTS ON POPULATIONS (VARIOUS SITES)
C. POPULATION VIABILITY ANALYSIS OF CHESAPEAKE BAY POPULATIONS
6. MICROHABITAT SEGREGATION OF TWO UTAH SAND DUNE TIGER BEETLES (COLEOPTERA: CICINDELIDAE)
BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION OF THE CORAL PINK SAND DUNES TIGER BEETLE, Cicindela limbata albissima Rumpp
C. Barry Knisleyand
James M. Hill
RR 1, Box 2746
Reedville, VA 22539
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the distribution, abundance, and biology of Cicindela limbata albissima Rumpp, an endemic tiger beetle known only from the Coral Pink Sand Dunes (CPSD) in southwestern Utah. A recently implemented Conservation Agreement between BLM, USFWS, Utah State Parks and Kane County protects most of the habitat of this beetle from off highway vehicle use. A search of collection records and field surveys of Great Basin sand dune sites indicated that this species occurs only at CPSD. Yearly index counts of adults (1992-1998) during peak season (May) ranged from 331 in 1997 to 895 in 1993, but the actual population size is probably 2-3 times higher than the index counts. We noted a direct correlation between adult numbers and rainfall amount the previous year. Nearly all of the population is found in the primary habitat, a 300 m wide x 2.7 km long area in the southern part of the dune field. Adults and larvae are most common along the edges of the interdunal swales and low to mid- dune slopes. Total counts of active larval burrows in the primary habitat during May ranged from 908 in 1998 to 3567 in 1996. Small numbers of adults (<10/year) and larvae (highest count of 352 in eight swales in 1998) have been found in recent years at the far north end of the dune field.| Marking studies indicated that most adults moved only short distances (<300 m) throughout the dune field, but a few moved 1000 m. Developmental time from egg through the three larval instars to adult required two years. This beetle has a 2-year, modified spring-fall life cycle. Adults are most abundant from April through early June, but small numbers, which emerge from a subsequent adult cohort, are found from late August to early October. Adults are active warm or sunny days, but dig burrows to spend the night and on cloudy or cold days and during mid-day when sand surface temperatures are very high. We observed little evidence of parasitism or predation of larvae or adults, but these limiting factors were not fully studied. | |
Marking studies indicated that most adults moved only short distances (<300 m) throughout the dune field, but a few moved 1000 m. Developmental time from egg through the three larval instars to adult required two years. This beetle has a 2-year, modified spring-fall life cycle. Adults are most abundant from April through early June, but small numbers, which emerge from a subsequent adult cohort, are found from late August to early October. Adults are active warm or sunny days, but dig burrows to spend the night and on cloudy or cold days and during mid-day when sand surface temperatures are very high. We observed little evidence of parasitism or predation of larvae or adults, but these limiting factors were not fully studied.
Surveys of dominant plant species, arthropod (tiger beetle prey) abundance, and OHV activity indicated that these vary throughout the dune field and may explain, in part, the distribution of C. l. albissima. The primary habitat was a transition area between the highly dynamic south end of the dune field and the more stabilized north end. Psoralidium lanceolatum, Sophora stenophylla, and Stipa hymenoides were the dominant plants in the interdunal swales of the primary habitat, but other species were dominant in the other parts of the dune field. Numbers of arthropod individuals and taxa were greatest in the primary habitat. OHV activity was greatest at the south end of the dune field and lowest at the far north end. OHV runover trials and observational data revealed that adult beetles are killed by OHV’s, but this is probably not a significant impact on the population. More likely effects, some of which are supported by our studies and partially explain the beetle’s distribution, are: the disruption of normal adult and larval activity, damage to vegetation, reduction of arthropod prey of C. l. albissima, and a mixing of the upper soil layer which increases desiccation of the larval microhabitat. We anticipate that the Conservation Agreement will provide long term protection for this species at CPSD.
THE STATUS OF THE OLMOSA TIGER BEETLE, CICINDELA NEVADICA OLMOSA
From: C. Barry Knisley and Jim Hill
Department of Biology, Randolph-Macon College
Ashland, VA 23005
and
Robert Acciavatti
2111 Cherry St., Morgantown, WV
April 30, 2001
ABSTRACT
Cicindela nevadica is a relatively common and widespread southwestern tiger beetle that is largely restricted to saline habitats. Seven subspecies have been described (Sumlin 1990, Freitag 1999). The Olmosa Tiger Beetle (family Cicindelidae), Cicindela nevadica olmosa, was described by Vaurie (1950) from specimens collected along the south Texas coast and also the Tularosa Basin of New Mexico. Other known collection localities are the Estancia Basin, Torrance County, New Mexico, and the Salt Basin, Hudspeth County, Texas. It is distinguished from the other 6 subspecies by its broader elytral maculation pattern. The Olmosa Tiger Beetle was listed at a category 2 species in 1991 and 1994, apparently because of its limited range and few known populations. To determine distribution and abundance, we searched locality records from 58 university, museum and private collections and conducted fieldwork in New Mexico and Texas in the summer and fall of 2000. An examination of specimens from C. nevadica populations confirmed that C. n. olmosa was distinct from the other subspecies and that character differences between the New Mexico-west Texas populations and those from south Texas were sufficient to consider these as different subspecies. More study, including mtDNA studies, would be useful to confirm this.
As a result of the examination of collection records and our field work we obtained a total of 40 collection records for C. n. olmosa in New Mexico (14 actual sites), 5 in adjacent west Texas (1 site), and 15 in south Texas (4 sites). Discounting a few uncertain records, we determined the distribution of the Olmosa tiger beetle is restricted to four major areas (salt basins): the Estancia Basin in Torrance County, the Tularosa Basin (the White Sands area), the Salt Basin (Salt Flat) Texas playa, and the salt marsh area of south Texas. All of these are of similar geologic origin and age (Quaternary). In summer 2000, we found adults at 7 sites in the Tularosa Basin (3 at White Sands Missile Range, 2 at White Sands National Monument), at 2 new sites 35 km east of the known Willard sites but within the Estancia Basin and at 2 sites (1 apparently new) near Port Mansfield in southeast, Texas. Beetles were not seen at some of the known and many other potential sites, perhaps in part because the extended summer drought resulted in these sites being temporarily without water or even moisture in many cases. An important difference between the New Mexico and Texas coast populations is their life cycle pattern. New Mexico (and west Texas) populations have summer-active adults, but in coastal southeast Texas populations have a spring-fall pattern with adults active and even mating as late as November. Fall mating represents an unusual, perhaps unique pattern in tiger beetle life cycles, and may be an adaptation to climatic conditions in south Texas where rains come in late summer and early autumn. This pattern is further evidence that populations from these two widely separated areas represent different subspecies.
The results of this study indicate that C. n. olmosa currently exists in the four areas from which it has been known to previously occur but there are few populations. Most of the populations are on private lands but some are within parks or preserves. We have no evidence for extirpation or decline of any populations or loss of any sites, although this is difficult to determine from the limited information available on historic collection records. We found no obvious significant threats to habitats or populations, but extensive cattle grazing activity and perhaps lowering of the water table from irrigation demands could have an adverse effect when further examined. Additional surveys (under normal summer rainfall patterns) should be conducted to determine if there are populations at some of the sites where it was not found in 2000. There is much more potential habitat in the areas of its known distribution. Taxonomic studies, including mtDNA analysis, would help resolve the subspecies status of the New Mexico and coastal south Texas populations. We believe the information on the distribution and abundance of this species indicates it should be considered for Federal listing, pending additional surveys within its known range.
THE STATUS OF THE MESCELARO SANDS TIGER BEETLE, CICINDELA FORMOSA RUTILOVIRESCENS
C. Barry Knisley* and Jim Hill**We determined the habitat of this species was within the oak shinnery sand dune community dominated by Quercus harvardi and Artemesia filamentosa. However, it was restricted within areas of apparent suitable habitat, occurring at only 19% (17) of the 90 total sites that we surveyed, and 17 of 54 (24%) of sites within its range. We found it only in open, more sparsely vegetated areas, especially sandy roads and pipeline cuts that were made more open by disturbances. Some were also found in natural blowouts. Total numbers and densities were extremely low compared to most cicindelids and other subspecies of C. formosa. At 14 of the 17 sites we found (during 30-60 minute surveys) only 1-3 adults. Numbers at the other three sites were 10,11,15. Information from collection records and collectors suggest up to 40 adults have been taken on a single date, but most often numbers are much lower.
The biology of the Mescelaro sands tiger beetle is apparently similar to that of other tiger beetles and like that of other subspecies of C. formosa. The larval burrow is unique in opening into the side of a small pit rather than directly at the ground surface. The function of this unique burrow may be to trap ants and other prey or prevent sand from entering the burrow. The life cycle pattern is spring-fall, with adults active from early April into June, declining in mid-summer, then increasing in September and October as a new cohort of adults emerge. Development from egg to adult probably requires two years. Impacts of parasites and predators are unknown, but we found several Anthrax flies, a known larval parasite, at one site. Climatic factors, especially low rainfall probably have the greatest effect on the population dynamics of C. f. rutilovirescens. For example, low rainfall can act by causing desiccation of early instars, reducing prey availability and coincidentally extending development time.
In general, the results of this study show that C. f. rutilovirescens has a very limited distribution relative to a more extensive area of potential shinnery oak habitat. There are likely to be more populations in areas not surveyed or in the same general areas checked, but perhaps not found due to low numbers or drought-induced activity. Regardless, we believe this insect is rare. Many sites are on BLM lands, but most of these and others that probably exist on private lands are unprotected. A possible significant threat to populations is shinnery oak control by Tebuthiuron which reduces open areas in the habitat. We noticed this apparent affect during our surveys. Other human-related impacts, such as oil and gas exploration, cattle grazing, and OHV activity, if they occur at low to moderate levels, may not have a negative effect and could create more open habitat. On the basis of these studies, we conclude that this species should be considered for threatened or endangered status. Additional surveys are needed, especially to confirm if the rarity we found is typical, or caused by the unusual drought conditions in 2000.
TIGER
BEETLES OF NEW MEXICO
DISTRIBUTION, ABUNDANCE, BIOLOGY AND
CONSERVATION STATUS
C. Barry Knisley*. Robert Acciavatti** and Jim Hill***
ABSTRACT
This report presents a review of the distribution, abundance, biology and conservation of New Mexico's tiger beetles. We reviewed the literature on the state’s tiger beetles, compiled records and examined specimens from collections of 58 universities, museums and private collectors. Our field surveys and study (122 total researcher days, over 250 sites checked) were conducted in 1999 and 2000 throughout all parts of the state, but we especially focused on the northern and southeastern portions, and other locations where information was needed on particular species.
The results of this study produced a list of 64 total taxa of Cicindelidae with confirmed records of collection in New Mexico: 2 Amblycheila species, 1 Megacephala species, 61 Cicindela species or subspecies. One species we believe occurs here is C. pimeriana, but records could not be confirmed or specimens found. Several other southeastern Arizona species (A. baroni, C. wickhami, C. viridisticta) are not included in the list of 64, but potentially may be found in southwestern New Mexico. An additional two species (C. theatina and C. splendida) may enter the state from Colorado. We provide confirmed evidence in collections for six new taxa to the state: C. macra, C. duodecimguttata, C. decemnotata, C. politula barbaraannae, C. limbalis, C. nebraskana. Many additional new records are included. More detailed studies are needed to resolve the taxonomic status of certain species (C. politula, C. nevadica, C. fulgida, C. willistoni) and the nomenclatural status of other species (C. togata, C. tranquebarica) in New Mexico should be clarified by examination of the type specimens. Some taxa are rare in New Mexico because their habitats are limited in the state or they reach the limits of their range there.
Detailed accounts of the 69 taxa actually or potentially in the state are given with a review of the taxonomy, description, distribution, biology, and conservation for each. Species and subspecies are grouped according to primary habitat types where they occur. Montane species include C. decemnotata, C. longilabris laurentii, C. nebraskana, C. purpurea cimarrona, C. p. audubonii (and intergrades), C. sexguttata. Some grassland species are generally widespread (C. o. obsoleta, C. o. santaclarae, C. p. pulchra,) in the state, whereas others are localized (A. cylidriformis, A. picolominii, C. hornii, C. debilis, C. pulchra dorothea, C. pimeriana). Taxa from sandy soil habitats are C. f. formosa, C. f. rutilovirescens, C. l. lengi ,C. l. jordai, C. lepida, C. s. scutellaris.
Taxa from saline habitats exhibit a very high degree of subspeciation and endemism in the state. These include: C. c. johnsoni, C. f. fulgida, C. f. rumpii, C. f. williamlarsi, C. f. winonae, C. f. fulgoris, C. hemorrhagica woodgatei, C. nevadica. knausii, C. n. olmosa, C. n. tubensis, C. togata globicollis, C. t. fascinans (needs renamed), C. willistoni estancia, C. w. funaroi, C. w. hirtifrons. Species in water edge habitats are: Megacephala carolina carolina, C. cuprascens, C. duodecimguttata, C. hirticollis shelfordi, C. macra fluviatilis, C. marutha, C. o. ocellata, C. o. rectilatera, C. oregona guttifera, C. oregona maricopa (and intergrades), C. repanda, C. sperata sperata, C. s. sedecimpunctata, C. tenuisignata. Taxa that are found in a variety of habitats or in specialized habitats are: C. decemnotata, C. denverensis, C. fera, C. lemniscata lemniscata, C. l. rebaptistata, C. limbalis, C. n. nigrocoerulea, C. n. bowditchi, C. politula barbaraannae, C. p. petrophila, C. p. viridimonticola, C. punctulata chihuahuae, C. terricola cinctipennis, C .t. tranquebarica, C. tranquebarica admiscens.
The following species or subspecies we believe might be rare and potential candidates for listing as endangered or threatened, pending further survey work on distribution and threats: C. f. rutilovirescens, C. willistoni funaroi, C. fulgida williamlarsi, C. fulgida winonae, C. nevadica olmosa, C. nevadica tubensis, C. togata (white morph) and C. politula subspecies. Because of the high degree of habitat specificity some of the New Mexico species could be important indicators of habitat change or disturbance. The number of taxa (species and subspecies) is greater than any other state. This is probably due to several factors, including the diverse climate, habitats and geology of the state that contributed to evolution and endemism, and its position as a "biological crossroads" where species with varied origins intersect.
TRANSLOCATION OF THE NORTHEASTERN BEACH TIGER BEETLE, CICINDELA DORSALIS DORSALIS, TO SANDY HOOK, NEW JERSEY – 2000 C. Barry Knisley
(Revised) April 30, 2001
ABSTRACT The objective of the work presented here was to conduct the third of three translocations of larvae of the Northeastern beach tiger beetle (Cicindela dorsalis dorsalis) to Gateway National Recreation Area, Sandy Hook Unit, New Jersey, in an attempt to establish a population of this species there. In mid-April 2000, we collected 554 larvae (194 large third instars, 175 medium third instars, 137 small-sized third instars and 48 second instars) from four Northumberland County, Virginia sites and translocated them to Sandy Hook. These larvae were placed onto the sand surface as 18 groups of 30 larvae (two rows of 15 larvae in each group) and one group of 14 in separate microhabitat patches at North Beach. Of these translocated larvae, 536 dug burrows within one hour of their placement on the sand. The 18 that did not dig burrows were either dead or injured. This was the same procedure and same area that we used for the previous larval translocations.
On the first survey for adult emergence on July 10, 2000, we counted a total of 720 adults of C. d. dorsalis at North Beach. Most of these adults were within 400 meters of the area where the translocated larvae were placed. The actual number of adults present on this date may be 2 times greater than our count. Seventeen adults were found about 500 meters north of the main concentration, at Coast Guard Beach. Because the number of adults counted was greater than the number translocated, it is certain than many of these adults originated from larvae that developed from earlier instars and overwintered at the site. A second adult count on July 25 produced a count of 188 adults. Most of these were in the same area as those on the July 10 survey, but 3 individuals were at Coast Guard Beach. During a third survey of adults on August 16, we counted 63 adults at North Beach. Two surveys for larvae were conducted. On September 15, we found 33 larval burrows (7 first instars, 14 second instars, 12 third instars) and on October 13, we found 18 burrows (11 second instars, 7 third instars). The results of these 2000 translocations, especially the large number of adults counted in July, provide very convincing evidence that a population of C. d. dorsalis is being successfully established at Gateway National Recreation Area. All stages of the life cycle can apparently survive at the North Beach site.
MICROHABITAT SEGREGATION OF TWO UTAH SAND DUNE TIGER BEETLES (COLEOPTERA: CICINDELIDAE)
WILLIAM L. ROMEY AND C. BARRY KNISLEY
Department of Biology, Southern Utah University, Cedar City, UT 84720 (WLR)
Department of Biology, Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, VA 23005 (CBK)
Present Address of WLR: Department of Biology, SUNY Potsdam, Potsdam, NY 13676
ABSTRACT
The Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle (Cicindela limbata albissima) exists only within the Coral Pink Sand Dunes in Southwestern Utah. It is currently a candidate for listing as an endangered species. Cicindela tranquebarica occurs throughout the southwestern U.S., including the Coral Pink Sand Dunes. In this study we examined microhabitat differences between C. l. albissima and C. tranquebarica. Results of June 1999 adult counts and measurements of percent soil moisture and salt content in 53 interdune swales indicated a significant negative correlation between soil moisture and the relative number of adult C. l. albissima to C. tranquebarica and a significant positive correlation between soil moisture and the number of adult C. tranquebarica. The relative ratio of the two types of larvae in a given swale was significantly correlated to the relative ratio of the two species of adults. The cause of the observed microhabitat differences for relatively moist or dry soil could be due to a number of, as yet, unstudied factors including oviposition preference by the females and larval competition.