World Tiger Beetle day - November 11
Tiger Beetles in India
Tiger beetles are brightly colored, fast-moving, predatory insects found in various habitats across India.
India has 241 species of tiger beetles, the third highest number in the world.
These beetles are important for biodiversity and agriculture as they help control other insect populations.
Notable Species of Tiger Beetles
Enigmatic Tiger Beetle: Last seen over 200 years ago in Ammayanaikanur, Tamil Nadu; possibly extinct.
Bengaluru Tethys: Documented in Bengaluru in the 1990s; threatened by rapid urbanization.
Spindle-necked Tethys: Found in Ponmudi and Periyar National Park, Kerala; threatened by plantations and tourism.
Speckled Tethys: Found in Anaimalai, Nilgiris, and Meghamalai foothills, Tamil Nadu; highly threatened by tourism.
Waxen Tiger Beetle: Last seen in Manapad, Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu in 1987; hasn’t been observed since.
Violet-sided Tiger Beetle: Found in Jorebungalow, Darjeeling; restricted to that forest region.
Wrinkled Knobby: Found in the Eastern Himalayas foothills in Darjeeling; its habitat is shrinking due to tourism and tea plantations.
Thin Brush: Endemic to Northeast India, last seen at Meghalaya, 1400 meters altitude; known for metallic colors.
Conservation Efforts and Threats
Tiger beetles are indicator species, meaning their health reflects the state of the environment.
Threats include plantations, mining, tourism, and urbanization.
46% of India’s tiger beetle species are threatened with extinction.
Workshops and talks, like World Tiger Beetle Day, aim to raise awareness and promote conservation.
Importance of Tiger Beetles
Tiger beetles are top predators in the insect world, helping control pest populations.
They play a key role in maintaining ecosystem balance and are considered beneficial to farmers.
Extensive surveys and behavioral studies are needed to find ways to conserve these beetles and protect their habitats.
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