Dogbane Beetles - Chrysochus auratus
These beetles didn't appear to have a care in the world, aside from copulation.
Dogbane beetles are iridescent blue-green with metallic copper coloring on their front wings. The legs and antennae are dark blue. They have long, 12-jointed antennae.
These beetles are named for the dogbane plants that they frequently eat. The plants contain chemicals called cardenolides, which are bitter and toxic to other insects. Dogbane beetles are adapted to be able to eat and store these chemicals in their bodies, which helps to protect them from predators.
Habitat: Meadow
Chrysochus auratus, of eastern North America, is a member of the insect subfamily Eumolpinae. It is primarily found east of the Rocky Mountains. One of the brightest in its family, it is iridescent blue-green with a metallic copper, golden or crimson shine.
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