Black Bellied Tiger Beetle

This species is moderately common in Alberta.

These beetles have been collected from May through August; are also expected in April and September.

The range of this species covers northwestern United States and in Canada the southern areas of the western provinces. These beetles are found throughout most of the southern fourth of Alberta.

Adults of this species are slightly smaller than those of Cicindela longilabris and have reduced elytral maculations. Cicindela nebraskana adults have a black, rarely iridescent underside, whereas Cicindela longilabris adults are usually iridescent blue, green or bronzed on the underside. Cicindela nebraskana adults have the elytral surface more lustrous while those of C. longilabris are covered with minute granules resulting in a dull lustre. Members of C. nebraskana live in prairie grasslands while C. longilabris live in forest clearings and meadows.

Prefer open areas between clumps of grass and earth mounds; prairie grasslands on heavy clay soils.

Adults are known to overwinter.

None available.

Cicindela nebraskana, known generally as the prairie long-lipped tiger beetle or black-bellied tiger beetle, is a species of flashy tiger beetle in the family Cicindelidae. It is found in North America. It grows between 12 and 13 mm in length, and is black in colour.