August 10, 2012 at 2:42 pm

The Beautiful Golden Tortoise Beetle [12 pics]

by twistedsifter

 

The Golden Tortoise Beetle (Charidotella sexpunctata) is a widely distributed North American insect with a typical size of 5 -7 mm. Recognizable by their golden colour, they have the ability to change colours when disturbed. This color change is accomplished by microscopic valves controlling the moisture levels under the shell. Their preferred food are Morning Glory leaves.

Below you will find a gallery of this fascinating insect, best known for its shimmering metallic colour. For more information please visit:

University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Services
BugGuide.net
Wikipedia

 

1.

golden tortoise beetle mating 2 The Beautiful Golden Tortoise Beetle [12 pics]

 

 

2.

Golden Tortoise Beetle - Undisturbed Adult

 

 

3.

Golden Tortoise Beetle

Photograph by Kenneth Ng on Flickr

 

 

4.

Golden Tortoise Beetle - Charidotella sexpunctata

Photograph by Rob Swatski on Flickr

 

 

5.

Dec 08 - portrait mode of Golden Tortoise Beetle

 

 

6.

Golden Tortoise Beetle

Photograph by lika2009 on Flickr

 

 

7.

golden tortoise beetle mating 1 The Beautiful Golden Tortoise Beetle [12 pics]

Photograph via Scientific American

 

 

8.

Golden Tortoise Beetle

Photograph by SeabrookeLeckie.com

 

 

9.

Golden Bug (Tortoise beetles)

 

 

10.

Golden Tortoise Beetle

 

 

11.

Golden Tortoise beetle

Photograph by Dougeee on Flickr

 

 

12.

Golden Tortoise Beetle

 

 

 

 

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