Central American Montane Tiger Beetle

Pseudoxycheila tarsalis

This beetle is native to high altitude rainforest regions in Central and Northern South America. Its fused elytra makes it flightless, but it is fast and agile and uses sharp, saber-like jaws used to catch and consume prey. If threatened, it can release foul smelling irritants to deter predators.

Recorded lineage

kingdomAnimaliaphylumArthropodaclassInsectaorderColeopterafamilyCarabidaegenusPseudoxycheilaspeciesPseudoxycheila tarsalis

Observed

Mar 23, 2026

Location

Río Verde, Ecuador