Gem-like Beetle In South Florida Moving Closer to Endangerment

Gem-like Beetle In South Florida Moving Closer to Endangerment

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced that the Miami tiger beetle is currently endangered and is possibly going to be under the Endangered Species Act. The Miami tiger beetle is only found in the pine rocklands of South Florida.

In December of 2014 the Center petitioned for this beetle to be put onto the Endangered Species Act after learning that a planned strip mall threatens the beetle and proposed theme park that is coming.

The Miami tiger beetle is named after its aggressive, predatory behavior, strong mandibles and fast running speed. The pine rocklands of South Florida are one of the most endangered habitats in the world. There are several other endangered species that are found in this habitat as well.

The newest proposal listing opens up a public comment period for the next 60 days regarding the last remaining tract of privately owned rockland.

What do you think?