Margined blister beetle

Epicauta funebris

Severity of bites

Mid

More serious effects, like stronger pain, more extensive swelling, possible transmission of disease or longer-lasting health effects. This can also include bugs that cause significant discomfort but aren't typically life-threatening.

Description

Margined blister beetle is a unique beetle, feeding on legumes and sometimes other beetles. Its peculiar mating ritual involves males gifting toxic secretions to females for protection. Intriguingly, margined blister beetle can pose health risks to humans as its venom can cause blistering and skin irritation. If handled carelessly, they might spray their toxic chemical as a defensive mechanism. Despite their miniscule size, margined blister beetle necessitates careful interaction due to its defensive abilities.

What are the symptoms of a Margined blister beetle bite or sting?

Sheep and cattle fatalities

Margined blister beetle is known to cause fatalities in herds of sheep or cattle that consume hay contaminated with beetles. The symptoms in animals include depression, labored breathing, diarrhea, and excessive salivation, which may eventually lead to death.

Skin irritation

In humans, contact with margined blister beetle's defensive toxin can cause skin irritation. Symptoms can range from mild redness and itching to painful blisters. Other symptoms can include fever, nausea, and decreased blood pressure.

Eye irritation

If the defensive toxin of margined blister beetle comes into contact with the eyes, it can cause symptoms such as redness, pain and even temporary blindness.

Note

It's important to note that the severity of the symptoms can vary depending on the individual's sensitivity and the number of bites or stings received. If you are concerned about a specific bite or sting or if symptoms persist or worsen, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

What are the treatments for a Margined blister beetle bite or sting?

Cleansing

If your skin comes into contact with margined blister beetle's toxic defensive spray, immediately cleanse the affected area with soap and water to remove the toxin.

Cool Compresses

Apply cool compresses to alleviate itching and inflammation caused by the toxic spray.

Eye Rinsing

If the toxin enters the eye, immediately and thoroughly rinse the eye with cool, clean water and seek medical help.

Medical Attention

If symptoms persist or worsen, immediate medical attention is required. Always seek advice from a healthcare professional to ensure appropriate treatment.

Note

Remember, it is always best to seek advice from a healthcare professional when dealing with bites or stings, especially if you are unsure of the type of insect or the person's medical history.

How to prevent a Margined blister beetle bite or sting?

Protective Clothing

Wear protective clothing such as gloves, long-sleeved shirts, and pants when handling hay or venturing in open grasslands where margined blister beetle might be present to avoid skin contact with the insect's toxin.

Examine Hay

Thoroughly examine hay before feeding it to livestock to ensure it is free from margined blister beetle.

Proper Pest Control

Ensure proper pest control measures in grassland and farm areas to limit margined blister beetle population.

Cookie Name	Source	Purpose	Lifespan
_ga	Google Analytics	These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here.	1 Year
_pta	PictureThis Analytics	We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience.	1 Year

Cookie Name	Source	Purpose	Lifespan
_fbp	Facebook Pixel	A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here.	1 Year
_adj	Adjust	This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here.	1 Year