''Heterelmis comalensis'' is a rare species of
beetle known by the common name Comal Springs riffle beetle. It is
endemic to
Texas[ in the United States, where it occurs in only two ]springs
Spring(s) may refer to:
Common uses
* Spring (season), a season of the year
* Spring (device), a mechanical device that stores energy
* Spring (hydrology), a natural source of water
* Spring (mathematics), a geometric surface in the shape of a he ...
. It is a federally listed endangered species
An endangered species is a species that is very likely to become extinct in the near future, either worldwide or in a particular political jurisdiction. Endangered species may be at risk due to factors such as habitat loss, poaching and inv ...
of the United States.[
]
Description
This beetle was described as a new species in 1988. It is about long.[
]
Habitat and conservation
The beetle lives in Comal Springs in Comal County and San Marcos Springs
San Marcos Springs is the second largest natural cluster of springs in Texas. The springs are located in the city of San Marcos, Texas, about 30 miles (48 km) southwest of Austin and 46 miles (74 km) northeast of San Antonio.
Although ...
in Hays County, Texas. It occurs in shallow water in the gravel
Gravel is a loose aggregation of rock fragments. Gravel occurs naturally throughout the world as a result of sedimentary and erosive geologic processes; it is also produced in large quantities commercially as crushed stone.
Gravel is classifi ...
substrate and in riffles.[ It lives alongside other species such as the beetle '' Microcylloepus pusillus''.][ Some specimens are kept in captivity at the San Marcos National Fish Hatchery and Technology Center, and some larvae have been produced.]
References
{{Taxonbar, from=Q2414708
Byrrhoidea
Endemic fauna of Texas
Beetles of North America
Beetles described in 1988