Abstract

RUBIO-G, José David; VALLEJO-E, Luis Fernando  and  POSADA-F, Francisco J. PSEUDOXYCHEILA BIPUSTULATA, HIGH MOUNTAIN COLEOPTERA IN THE COLOMBIAN ANDES. Bol. Cient. Mus. Hist. Nat. Univ. Caldas [online]. 2009, vol.13, n.2, pp.241-248. ISSN 0123-3068.

This paper describes observations on the behavior and habitat of Pseudoxycheila bipustulata (Coleoptera: Carabidae: Cicindelinae) at altitudes above 1800 meters on the slopes of Nevado de Ruiz (Caldas, Colombia). This insect is widely recognized by local residents who admit that at some stage of their childhood they have used the larva or the adult for entertainment. They refer to the adult using colloquial names. Both the larva and the adult are very attractive; the larva’s head and body have a grotesque aspect that resembles small monsters, while the adult has bright colors that resemble a jewel of nature. This paper discusses the relationship of this insect with human beings and the interest of reconciling the conservation of its habitat and the use of this species as a natural resource in research, education, recreational activities and environmental conservation, as a biological indicator. All of these aspects can contribute to understanding the cultural and economic significance of this group of beetles.

Keywords : biodiversity; biological indicator; conservation; protection.

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