Blister Beetle
ExploreInsects
Blister Beetle
Mylabris pustulata
Blister Beetles are interesting insects that can sometimes make you feel a little itchy! They have bright colors to warn others to stay away.
Habitat: Gardens and fields
Appearance
The Blister Beetle has an elongated, somewhat soft body, often adorned with striking yellow, orange, or red patterns against a black background. Its vibrant colors serve as a warning, making it visually distinct from many other beetles.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderColeopteraFamilyMeloidaeGenusMylabris
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Baby Blister Beetles start life as tiny hunters, seeking out grasshopper eggs!
Dried Blister Beetles were once used in medicines, though it was very dangerous!
If threatened, they can 'bleed' a special toxic fluid from their leg joints!
Some species were even collected to make a powerful aphrodisiac called 'Spanish Fly'!
Special abilities
Ability
Chemical Shield
Blister Beetles can release a potent blistering chemical called cantharidin for defense against predators.
Ability
Shape-Shifting Life
Blister Beetles have a unique 'hypermetamorphosis' life cycle, changing forms up to eight times as they grow.
Ability
Parasite Power
Their larvae can sneak into other insect nests to feed on eggs and stored food, acting as tiny predators.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 20-50 mm
- Size
- 10-25 mm
- Lifespan
- 30-90 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adult Blister Beetles munch on plants, pollen, and nectar, while their larvae are fierce hunters!
Age differences: Larvae are predatory, eating other insect eggs and larvae, but adults switch to a plant-based diet.
Primary Foods
- Pollen
- Nectar
- Plant leaves
- Grasshopper eggs
- Bee larvae
- Bee stored provisions
Ecological connections
eats
Differential Grasshopper
Melanoplus differentialis
Larvae devour their eggs.
parasitizes
Red Mason Bee
Osmia bicornis
Larvae feed in their nests.
depends on
Common Sunflower
Helianthus annuus
Adults feed on its pollen.
Traits
Wildlife
Wildlife encompasses all undomesticated animal and plant life existing in their natural habitats.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not touch or pick up. Some insects sting or bite. Ask an adult for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Blister Beetle's wingspan?
20-50 mm
How big is Blister Beetle?
10-25 mm
How long does Blister Beetle live?
30-90 days
What does Blister Beetle eat?
Adult Blister Beetles munch on plants, pollen, and nectar, while their larvae are fierce hunters!
Where is Blister Beetle usually found?
Gardens and fields
How many legs does Blister Beetle have?
6
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