Tiger beetles are a large group of beetles, from the Cicindelinae subfamily, known for their aggressive predatory habits and running speed. The fastest known species of tiger beetle, Cicindela hudsoni, can run at a speed of 9 km/h, or about 125 body lengths per second. Wikipedia
Tiger beetles (Cicindelinae) are strikingly beautiful predatory insects which come in a bewildering variety of stunning colours: iridescent, metallic greens, reds, blues and so on. Researchers have speculated about the function of these gorgeous colours and have come up with theories to do with crypsis (blending in), disruption by iridescence (dazzle!), mimicry (trying to look like something else), and thermoregulation (regulating their body temperature). For example, the iridescent colours of some species might be acting as an aposematic or warning coloration; a message to other would be predators that they are highly distasteful (some tiger beetles produce cyanide!) and best avoided! Tiger beetles: colour for a purpose
Spotted at Dairy Farm Nature Park
