Tuesday, March 1, 2011

Insect of the week!

The Tortoise Beetle


http://www.mobot.org/mobot/madagascar/essayimage.asp?order=27: David R. Parks
Tortoise beetle adult


These beetles have a very interesting way of protecting themselves from predators. As larvae, they use their shed exoskeletons and fecal matter to build a shield which helps camouflage them, and I am guessing it might make them unappetizing to predators as well.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/44947946@N06/4697887022/:Matthew J Sullivan
Tortoise Beetle Larvae



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2 comments:

  1. KenshoStudioMarch 14, 2011 at 7:00 PM

    These are amazing shots and what a fascinating approach to defense.
    Thanks,
    Andy

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  2. ChelsMarch 29, 2011 at 12:15 PM

    I have been very interested in these beetles; mainly because they can have such striking coloring. This is the first time I had heard about their defense mechanism though, and I plan on looking out for it!

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