Tiger Jaw

[Tony T]

Ventral view of the left mandible of Six-spotted Tiger Beetle.
Take a look at the 3rd image of Doug's series HERE that clearly shows the left mandible.
I thought the "teeth" would have sharper points but maybe they are just for crushing prey.
Best I can do for now: 200mm MF Micro (f 8 on this lens)+ 50mm reversed (f 1.8), single SB800 flash; stack of 18 with Helicon Focus.

[Ken Ramos]

That is some jaw, looks like something off a dinosaur. I rarely encounter these beetles, maybe it is just that I am not looking for them.

[Tony T]

I thought of this as a Quiz topic, reminded me of a dinosaur jaw as well.
One difficulty with spotting tiger beetles is that they are wary and they fly off before you can get close. You have to be looking about 12' ahead. Their activity is highly dependent upon temperature and sunshine so best to stalk them on cooler, duller days.
The most recent book on these beetles (Pearson et al. 2006. A Field Guide to the Tiger Beetles of the United States band Canada. Oxford University Press. 227pp.) discusses mandible length "...in most habitat types where food is not abundant, tiger beetle species occurring together tend to have differnt sized mandible". They compare (drawings) the mandibles of 17 spp. from 1 locality in Arizona.

[beetleman]

I would have to say that they could do some impaling also on the soft tissue I am glad I am not small and have to face a pair of these jaws. Their whole stance and body language shout "Fierce predator" An excellent photo Tony.