Cicindela iberica facts for kids

The Cicindela iberica is a special kind of tiger beetle. It belongs to a group of beetles called Cicindela. This amazing insect lives only in Spain, which means it is endemic to that country.

What is a Tiger Beetle?

Tiger beetles are fascinating insects known for being very fast runners and fierce hunters. They get their name because they are like tigers in the insect world! They are predators, meaning they hunt other smaller insects.

Why are they called "Tiger" Beetles?

Tiger beetles are super speedy, just like a tiger chasing its prey. They have long, slender legs that help them run incredibly fast. They also have powerful jaws, called mandibles, which they use to catch and eat other insects.

Where do Tiger Beetles Live?

Most tiger beetles prefer sunny, open areas. You can often find them in places like sandy beaches, dirt paths, or open fields. The Cicindela iberica specifically lives in Spain.

Appearance of the Cicindela iberica

Like other tiger beetles, the Cicindela iberica is likely to have a metallic sheen on its body. This can make them look shiny and colorful, often with shades of green, blue, or brown. They are usually small to medium-sized beetles.

Body Parts of a Tiger Beetle

Tiger beetles have a head, a thorax (middle section), and an abdomen (tail section).

• Their heads are wide, with large eyes that help them spot prey.
• They have long antennae that they use to feel their way around.
• Their legs are long and thin, perfect for running.
• They also have wings, though some species prefer to run rather than fly.

Life of a Cicindela iberica

Tiger beetles go through a complete metamorphosis, just like butterflies. This means they start as an egg, hatch into a larva, then become a pupa, and finally emerge as an adult beetle.

Larval Stage

The larvae of tiger beetles are also hunters! They live in burrows in the ground. They wait at the entrance of their burrow, ready to grab any small insect that walks by. They have special hooks on their bodies to help them stay anchored in their burrow while they snatch their prey.

Adult Stage

Once they become adults, Cicindela iberica beetles continue their hunting lifestyle. They are active during the day, especially when it's sunny. They use their excellent eyesight and speed to catch other insects like ants, flies, and small spiders.

Conservation of Cicindela iberica

Since Cicindela iberica only lives in Spain, it's important to protect its habitat. Many species of insects, including some tiger beetles, are facing challenges due to changes in their environment. Protecting the places where they live helps ensure these unique creatures can continue to thrive.