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Red-eared blister beetle

Red-eared blister beetle

Lytta auriculata

A species of Lytta

Lytta auriculata, or red-eared blister beetle, is a species of blister beetles in the family Meloidae. It is found in Central America and North America.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Red-eared blister beetle cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Red-eared blister beetle
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Attributes of Red-eared blister beetle
Colors
Black
Red
Habitat
white sage; oak woodland
Adult Food Sources
Leaves, flowers, pollen
Larva Food Source
Bee larvae, bee eggs, bee provisions (pollen and nectar stores)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Red-eared blister beetle 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
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Species Status of Red-eared blister beetle
Widespread
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Distribution Area of Red-eared blister beetle
Central America, North America
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Life Cycle of Red-eared blister beetle
Egg Laid in clusters, the eggs of red-eared blister beetle are often oval and may vary in color. These are the initial developmental stage, from which larvae will emerge after incubation.
Larva Newly hatched larvae are mobile with chewing mouthparts, feeding voraciously, often increasing greatly in size. These larvae go through several molts, with changes in size but not basic body layout.
Pupal After the final larval molt, the red-eared blister beetle enters the pupal stage, developing wings and adult structures within a protective casing. This stage is immobile, with dramatic transformation occurring.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult red-eared blister beetle showcases hardened exoskeleton and functional wings. Differing greatly from larvae in morphology, the adult seeks to mate and may exhibit dimorphism in color and size.
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Interesting Facts About Red-eared blister beetle
Red-eared blister beetle can produce a defensive chemical from its joints that is potent enough to cause blisters on human skin.
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Scientific Classification of Red-eared blister beetle
Tips for Finding Red-eared blister beetle
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Youth Habitat of Red-eared blister beetle
Grasslands and Prairies, Deserts and Arid Regions, On and Within Other Organisms (Parasitic and Symbiotic Relationships)
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Adult Habitat of Red-eared blister beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Deserts and Arid Regions
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How Can You Attract Red-eared blister beetle
Adult red-eared blister beetle can be attracted using plant baits they feed on, whereas larvae can be found near places where their target host insects reside.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Red-eared blister beetle
Mild and humid weather is suitable for finding red-eared blister beetle as they tend to be more active during these conditions.
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How and Where Can You Find Red-eared blister beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Larvae of red-eared blister beetle are often found within the nests of their host insects or in the soil. Search for them by carefully digging around the host nests or examining the ground where these hosts are abundant.
Pupal Pupa of red-eared blister beetle can be found in the soil or under debris close to the area where the larvae were located. Look for them by gently sifting through the soil and removing debris in potential pupation areas.
Adult Adult red-eared blister beetle are typically found on or near their host plants. To find them, search flowers, leaves, and stems during times of the day when they are most likely to feed or mate.
Are Red-eared blister beetle harmful?
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Are Red-eared blister beetle harmful to humans?

Red-eared blister beetle neither bites nor stings, and the cantharidin contained in it is highly toxic. Direct skin contact with red-eared blister beetle does not poison people.
It should be noted that when the red-eared blister beetle 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 red-eared blister beetle 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 Red-eared blister beetle
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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

Red-eared blister beetle harbors toxins that can lead to blistering on human skin upon contact. While both the larval and adult stages possess these toxins, it's the adult beetle that is more frequently encountered by humans. The defense mechanism involves releasing blistering agents when threatened, which can penetrate skin upon touch. Ingesting parts of red-eared blister beetle can result in more severe toxic reactions. Symptoms may range from mild irritation to severe skin lesions, and, in extreme cases, may lead to systemic issues.

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Toxic to Animals

Red-eared blister beetle uses its toxin primarily for defense, secreting it through its skin, particularly at the joints. While the toxicity can range from mild to severe, it's the skin contact that typically leads to poisoning. Humans, dogs, cats, and birds may experience varying degrees of irritation or discomfort upon touching red-eared blister beetle. Even other insects are not immune to the effects. This defense mechanism is active during both the larvae and adult stages, ensuring red-eared blister beetle's protection throughout its life cycle.

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Does the Red-eared blister beetle cause allergies?

Red-eared blister beetle at the adult stage can cause allergic reactions in humans upon contact. A small number of people may experience allergies with symptoms that can range from mild to severe. The severity depends upon individual sensitivity to the toxins released by red-eared blister beetle. People in contact with red-eared blister beetle should be aware of potential risks and take precautions to minimize exposure.

More Effects of Red-eared blister beetle

Beneficial Effects of Red-eared blister beetle
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Red-eared blister beetle assists in pollination primarily by consuming pollen. While feeding, pollen grains adhere to the insect's body and are subsequently transferred to other flowers. This inadvertent pollen transfer is crucial for plant reproduction. Red-eared blister beetle's attraction to flowers is guided by vivid colors and enticing scents.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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