Body Temperature Regulation and Terrestrial Activity in the Ectothermic Beetle Cicindela tranquebarica

In the field, tiger beetles basked and maintained body temperature ($T_{b}$) between 33 and 38 C while searching for prey and mates. Time spent searching and searching speed were positively correlated with $T_{b}$ and, to a lesser extent, with surface temperature. In the laboratory, running speed was positively correlated with $T_{b}$. The minimum $T_{b}$ for flight ranged from 22 to 26 C. At high ambient temperatures $T_{b}$ was modulated by stilting and short flights which promoted convective cooling. High body temperature increases the distance that a tiger beetle can search and may enhance encounter rates with prey and mates.