Spanish Fly
ExploreInsects
Spanish Fly
Lytta vesicatoria
The Spanish Fly is a bright green beetle known for its special ability to produce a chemical that can cause irritation. They are often found in warm places and are interesting to observe, but it's best to admire them from a distance!
Habitat: Grasslands
Appearance
The Spanish Fly is a strikingly metallic, iridescent green beetle with an elongated, cylindrical body. Its vibrant, almost jewel-like color sets it apart, often appearing to shimmer in sunlight. It has prominent antennae and a relatively soft, flexible exoskeleton.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderColeopteraFamilyMeloidaeGenusLytta
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
4/5 · High
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Ancient Romans and Greeks used Spanish Fly in remedies!
Despite its name, it's actually a type of beetle, not a fly!
These amazing insects can live up to a month as adults.
Touching them can cause a blister because of their special defense!
Special abilities
Ability
Chemical Shield
Spanish Fly can produce a powerful blistering chemical called cantharidin that helps them deter predators.
Ability
Iridescent Warning
Spanish Fly has a shiny, metallic green exoskeleton that helps them visually warn predators of their toxicity.
Ability
Bee Nester
Spanish Fly larvae can parasitize bee nests, consuming stored food and young bees for growth.
Measurements & details
- Size
- 15-25 mm
- Lifespan
- 20-40 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adults feast on tree leaves, while their larvae have a surprising diet inside bee nests!
Age differences: Larvae are parasitic, feeding on bee eggs and stored pollen/honey. Adults are herbivorous.
Primary Foods
- ash leaves
- lilac leaves
- poplar leaves
- willow leaves
- honeysuckle leaves
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eats
European Ash
Fraxinus excelsior
Adults commonly feed on the leaves of this tree species.
eats
Common Lilac
Syringa vulgaris
Its foliage is a preferred food source for the adult beetles.
parasitizes
Ashy Mining Bee
Andrena vaga
Larvae invade the underground nests of this ground-nesting bee.
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Grassland
Grassland habitats are terrestrial biomes dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants, supporting a variety of grazing animals.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Toxic
Toxic organisms contain substances that are poisonous and can cause adverse effects upon exposure.
Poisonous
Poisonous organisms produce toxins that can cause harm when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through contact.
Venomous
Venomous organisms produce toxins that are injected into another animal, typically through a bite or sting.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
4/5 · High
Do not touch or pick up Spanish Flies, as they can be harmful.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big is Spanish Fly?
15-25 mm
How long does Spanish Fly live?
20-40 days
What does Spanish Fly eat?
Adults feast on tree leaves, while their larvae have a surprising diet inside bee nests!
Where is Spanish Fly usually found?
Grasslands
How does Spanish Fly hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Spanish Fly have?
6
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