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Spanish fly

Spanish fly

Lytta vesicatoria

A species of Lytta

The Spanish fly (Lytta vesicatoria) is an emerald-green beetle in the blister beetle family (Meloidae). It and other such species were used in preparations offered by traditional apothecaries, often referred to as Cantharides or Spanish fly. The insect is the source of the terpenoid cantharidin, a toxic blistering agent once used as an aphrodisiac. L. vesicatoria is sometimes called Cantharis vesicatoria, although the genus Cantharis is in an unrelated family, Cantharidae, the soldier beetles.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Spanish fly cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Spanish fly
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Attributes of Spanish fly
Adult Food Sources
Leaves of ash trees, leaves of lilac bushes, flower petals, plant buds
Larva Food Source
Bee larvae, bee eggs, bee nest provisions
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Life Cycle of Spanish fly
Egg The spanish fly begins life as an egg. These are usually laid in clusters and hatch into larvae. The eggs are small, oval, and may vary in color according to the species but typically are white or light-colored.
Larva Upon hatching, the spanish fly larva goes through several molts as it grows, each time increasing in size. Initially, larvae are legless and grub-like but later develop legs. They are voracious feeders, often differing markedly in appearance from adults.
Pupal After reaching a certain size, the spanish fly enters the pupal stage, a period of transformation. Encased within a pupal covering, it undergoes significant changes—its body structure reorganizes, transitioning from larval to adult features.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult spanish fly'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 Spanish fly Larvae
Frogs, toads, ground beetles, spiders, ants, birds
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Interesting Facts About Spanish fly
Despite its vibrant hues, spanish fly employs a unique defense of secreting a caustic chemical to deter predators, a testament to the insect's focus on survival.
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Scientific Classification of Spanish fly
Tips for Finding Spanish fly
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Youth Habitat of Spanish fly
Grasslands and Prairies, On and Within Other Organisms (Parasitic and Symbiotic Relationships)
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Adult Habitat of Spanish fly
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
Are Spanish fly harmful?
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Are Spanish fly harmful to humans?

Spanish fly neither bites nor stings, and the cantharidin contained in it is highly toxic. Direct skin contact with spanish fly does not poison people.
It should be noted that when the spanish fly 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 spanish fly 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 Spanish fly
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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

Spanish fly secretes a toxic compound called cantharidin as a defense mechanism. Cantharidin can cause mild to severe toxic effects upon ingestion or contact with human skin, leading to blistering. Symptoms may range from skin irritation to severe digestive and urinary tract issues.

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Toxic to Animals

Spanish fly employs a defense mechanism that involves secreting toxins from its body. This secretion, which can be harmful upon ingestion or contact, serves as both a deterrent to predators and a means of capturing prey. The intensity of the toxicity can range from mild irritation to severe reactions, differing among various animals. For instance, humans might experience blistering on the skin, while small mammals like cats and dogs could exhibit signs of poisoning after ingestion. Birds affected by the toxin may exhibit distress and discomfort as well.

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Does the Spanish fly cause allergies?

Spanish fly, at the adult stage, may cause allergies in a small number of people upon contact. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe, manifesting typically as skin-related symptoms. The severity of an allergic response varies among individuals, so those who are allergic should handle spanish fly with caution to prevent potential adverse reactions.

More Effects of Spanish fly

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