The Sexy Golden Tortoise Beetle
Just when I think I have seen it all… The golden tortoise beetle, or as I like to call it, Charidotella sexpunctata, is a stunning, vibrant metallic gold color. But wait there is more… it can alter color within a short time period, turning from brilliant gold to a dull, spotty reddish color.
The gold color is caused by a thin layer of moisture between the cuticle and an inner layer of the elytra. Apparently the insect is able to “voluntarily” squeeze this layer, reducing its thickness and eliminating the gold color.
On a creepy side note: Does anybody else see the face in the last picture? Sexy!
[Cheers reddit]
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