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Epicauta hirticornis

Epicauta hirticornis

Epicauta hirticornis

A species of Burning blister beetles

Epicauta hirticornis is a beetle species from the family of oil beetles (Meloidae). The species was first scientifically described in 1880 by Haag-Rutenberg.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Epicauta hirticornis cause allergies?
Allergenic
How Does the Epicauta hirticornis Practice Parasitism?
Parasite
General Info About Epicauta hirticornis
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Attributes of Epicauta hirticornis
Colors
Black
Red
Habitat
Ferns
Adult Food Sources
Leaves of flowering plants, petals, pollen, nectar, fruit
Larva Food Source
Grasshopper eggs, beetle eggs, hemipteran eggs, orthopteran eggs, other insect eggs
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Epicauta hirticornis is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Epicauta hirticornis
Invasive species
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Distribution Area of Epicauta hirticornis
India, Taiwan in China, Thailand, Vietnam
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Life Cycle of Epicauta hirticornis
Egg The egg stage shows the initial form of epicauta hirticornis. The eggs are typically oval and have a protective coating. During this period, the primary function is to house the developing embryo until it hatches into a larva.
Larva Upon hatching, epicauta hirticornis experiences rapid growth in the larval stage. The larva are worm-like with a voracious appetite, molting multiple times as they grow. Each molt results in an incremental increase in size.
Pupal The pupal stage of epicauta hirticornis is a transformative phase. Encased within a pupa, the larval structures break down, and adult features start to develop. The creature is generally immobile, and its color may blend with the environment for camouflage.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult epicauta hirticornis’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Predators of Epicauta hirticornis Larvae
Rodents, birds, reptiles, spiders, other insects
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Predators of Adult Epicauta hirticornis
Birds, mantises, rodents, reptiles, spiders, other insects
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Interesting Facts About Epicauta hirticornis
Adult epicauta hirticornis can feed voraciously on flowers, displaying a polyphagous nature that contributes to their ecological impact on plant populations.
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Scientific Classification of Epicauta hirticornis
Tips for Finding Epicauta hirticornis
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Youth Habitat of Epicauta hirticornis
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, On and Within Other Organisms (Parasitic and Symbiotic Relationships)
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Adult Habitat of Epicauta hirticornis
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of Epicauta hirticornis Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of epicauta hirticornis are typically laid in the soil nearby host plants. Larvae, who undergo hypermetamorphosis, initially search for grasshopper eggs as their primary food source, frequently dwelling within the soil or leaf litter. As they progress in stages, some larvae become phoretic, attaching to bees for transportation to nests, where they consume bee eggs and provisions. Pupation of epicauta hirticornis usually occurs within the bee nest or in the soil. Adults emerge and are commonly found on flowers or plants, partaking in feeding and mating activities.
Are Epicauta hirticornis harmful?
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Are Epicauta hirticornis harmful to humans?

Epicauta hirticornis neither bites nor stings, and the cantharidin contained in it is highly toxic. Direct skin contact with epicauta hirticornis does not poison people.
It should be noted that when the epicauta hirticornis is frightened, it will secrete a small amount of cantharidin from the leg. The skin after contact will be red, swollen, painful, and burning, and blisters will appear within 48h. After waking up, many people will be confused by the blisters that somehow grew out of. Fortunately, the blisters caused by the epicauta hirticornis are temporary. Most people's symptoms will disappear within a week, and most of the recovered skin will not leave unsightly scars.
Harmful Effects of Epicauta hirticornis
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Toxic to Humans
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Toxic to Animals
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Allergenic
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Toxic to Humans

Epicauta hirticornis larvae and adults contain cantharidin, a potent toxin. Human exposure primarily occurs through skin contact or ingestion. Cantharidin can cause skin blisters on touch and severe gastrointestinal distress if ingested. Long-term effects include potential renal damage. Risk levels range from mild irritation to life-threatening, depending on exposure extent.

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Toxic to Animals

Epicauta hirticornis possesses a defense mechanism that allows it to penetrate the skin of potential threats through its surface joints, releasing toxins. While the toxicity varies from mild to severe, this species can cause a range of reactions across different groups. In humans, physical contact can lead to skin irritation or rashes. Domestic animals like dogs and cats might experience discomfort or illness if they come into contact with epicauta hirticornis. Likewise, birds, frogs, and other small animals might show varied symptoms upon exposure. Interestingly, even insects can be affected by this organism's toxic defense.

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Does the Epicauta hirticornis cause allergies?

Epicauta hirticornis can cause allergies in most people during both its larval and adult stages through contact with its toxins. The severity of allergic reactions ranges from mild to severe and might manifest as itching or rash. Individuals handling epicauta hirticornis should be cautious, as the degree of allergic response can vary widely among different persons.

More Effects of Epicauta hirticornis

Beneficial Effects of Epicauta hirticornis
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Pollination Behavior Reason
Accidental Contamination While Feeding On Nectar
Epicauta hirticornis is an efficient pollinator, often visiting flowers for their nectar. While feeding, epicauta hirticornis inadvertently collects and transfers pollen among blooms. This incidental contact during feeding contributes to the pollination of diverse floral species.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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