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Mylabris variabilis

Mylabris variabilis

Mylabris variabilis

A species of Mylabris

This striking beetle is known for its vibrant elytra, which exhibit an array of patterns often consisting of brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, juxtaposed with black markings that serve as a visual warning since they contain toxic chemical compounds used in defense. As a frequent sight among flowering vegetation, the adult is observed to primarily feed on petals and pollen, contributing unwittingly to pollination. Their larvae, however, engage in a more insidious lifestyle, as hypermetamorphosing parasites targeting the brood cells of solitary bees, where they initially present as worker-like in appearance to avoid detection by their unsuspecting hosts.

Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Humans
Toxic to Animals
Toxic to Animals
Does the Mylabris variabilis cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Mylabris variabilis
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Attributes of Mylabris variabilis
Colors
Black
Yellow
Habitat
Grassland, tall forb ​habita
Adult Food Sources
Flower petals, plant leaves, nectar, pollen, stems of plants
Larva Food Source
Grasshopper eggs, beetle larvae, bee larvae, locust 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 Mylabris variabilis 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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Distribution Area of Mylabris variabilis
This common species is present in most of Southern Europe, from the Iberian Peninsula to southern Russia. It can also be found in Caucaus and Transcaucasia, Near East and northern Levant, Middle East and Central Asia and Siberia.
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Life Cycle of Mylabris variabilis
Egg Embryonic development occurs within the egg. The mylabris variabilis is minute and the egg is typically laid in clusters, often hidden and protected from potential predators.
Larva Larvae emerge from eggs, bearing little resemblance to adults. They constantly feed and molt, with growth causing their size, color, and shape to change noticeably with each instar.
Pupal Within a chrysalis or cocoon, the mylabris variabilis undergoes transformation. It is immobile and vulnerable during this time. Body structures are reorganized, developing the form of an adult mylabris variabilis.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult mylabris variabilis is characterized by wings and functional reproductive organs. It is fully formed, hardened, and focused on reproduction, dispersal, and in some cases, feeding.
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Predators of Mylabris variabilis Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, rodents, spiders, predaceous insects
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Predators of Adult Mylabris variabilis
Birds, rodents, spiders, lizards, predaceous insects
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Interesting Facts About Mylabris variabilis
Some mylabris variabilis species have a unique defense mechanism which involves secreting a caustic chemical to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Mylabris variabilis
Tips for Finding Mylabris variabilis
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Youth Habitat of Mylabris variabilis
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Mylabris variabilis
Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Forests and Woodlands
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Habitat Preferences of Mylabris variabilis Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of mylabris variabilis are typically laid in the soil near flower beds, where upon hatching, the larvae seek out grasshopper eggs to feed on. Larvae may also be found in grasslands. Post-larvae, or triungulins, actively search for bee nests, particularly ground-nesting bees, attaching to foraging bees to be transported to the nest, where they develop into adulthood. Adult mylabris variabilis are usually found on flowers of various plants, where they feed on pollen and nectar, and are particularly drawn to bright colored blooms in open, sunny areas.
Are Mylabris variabilis harmful?
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Are Mylabris variabilis harmful to humans?

Mylabris variabilis neither bites nor stings, and the cantharidin contained in it is highly toxic. Direct skin contact with mylabris variabilis does not poison people.
It should be noted that when the mylabris variabilis 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 mylabris variabilis 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 Mylabris variabilis
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Toxic to Humans

Mylabris variabilis possesses a defense mechanism that includes cantharidin, a substance toxic upon ingestion or contact. Exposure ranges from skin irritation to severe internal complications. Effects may entail blisters, renal damage, or digestive distress, with potential fatalities in extreme cases.

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Toxic to Animals

Mylabris variabilis can pose a threat to animals such as humans, dogs, and cats through its ability to sting. When mylabris variabilis stings, it injects venom that is generally mild in toxicity. While humans might experience pain, swelling, and redness around the sting area, most domestic animals like dogs and cats exhibit similar reactions, although their smaller size may make them more sensitive to the effects. Some animals could have allergic reactions leading to more serious symptoms, although this is less common.

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Does the Mylabris variabilis cause allergies?

Mylabris variabilis, at its adult stage, can cause allergies in a small number of people upon contact. Allergic reactions range from mild to severe and are triggered by toxins present in the species. Symptoms typically include dermatitis or respiratory issues. Individuals should handle mylabris variabilis with care to minimize risk of allergic response.

More Effects of Mylabris variabilis

Beneficial Effects of Mylabris variabilis
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Shape
Pollination Behavior Reason
Eat Pollen Or Nectar
Mylabris variabilis is an active pollinator, attracted to the color and shape of flowers as cues for feeding. It consumes pollen as a food source and in doing so, unknowingly collects and transfers pollen between plants, facilitating fertilization and biodiversity.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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