When is a tortoise not a tortoise? When it’s actually a beetle! The golden tortoise beetle, whose scientific species name is aspidimorpha sanctaecrucis, is a creature with a turtle-like shell decorated with a striking golden pattern on its protective carapace. It looks like a tiny jewel come to life.As adorable as the beetle is sparkling, the part-golden, part-transparent carapace does more than just look pretty. It is a defense mechanism for the bug and covers its body so that it has protection against predators. The wings are also shielded underneath this hard shell. Another way in which they defend themselves is to remain inconspicuous—something that’s a challenge because of their sparkly appearance. But you’ll likely find them on the backside of a plant so that they stay concealed.This special beetle can be found in Southeastern Asia. China, Myanmar, Thailand, and Cambodia are just some of the places you might be lucky enough to spot its gold reflection against a green leaf.They look very similar to ladybird beetles and can be found feasting on all types of plants, all over the world.
They get their funny name from their peculiar structure, specifically their hardened wing covers which protect its flying wings.Previous
These hardened wing covers have a flattened ridge that outlines the body and conceals its head and legs, much like a tortoise.
This feature serves its purpose, also much like a tortoise, to tuck in its body parts when under attack
The golden tortoise beetle can be found all over the world but is very common in North America,
These golden beetles aren’t always so gold, like most other colorful creatures, they change color depending on their season, or in this case, even depending on their mood.
Under their shell, they have three layers of cuticle. These appear smooth when covered with liquid and reflect light perfectly, just like a mirror would.
When this beetle is under attack, it contracts the spaces between the laters, this moved the liquid away from the grooves changing it from a bright gold to a duller brown/orange color.
