Charidotella sexpunctata, the golden tortoise beetle, is a species of beetle in the leaf beetle family, Chrysomelidae. It is native to the Americas, and very broadly distributed. [1] Charidotella sexpunctata was formerly known as Metriona bicolor. The species has also been seen in regions reaching up to Argentina. [2]

Jul 20, 2020 · Arguably the shiniest insect you’ll ever see, the golden tortoise beetle (Charidotella sexpunctata) really does look as if it was made of gold. The adult, about ¼ inch (5 to 8 mm) long, resembles a domed transparent oval shield under which there is a brilliantly glossy golden insect.

Aug 31, 2022 · The golden tortoise beetle is a species of insect in the leaf beetle family, known for its striking gold color. They have rounded, domed bodies, similar to that of ladybugs . This beetle has a unique ability to change the shade of its pigmentation from bright to dull gold using microscopic cavities in its cuticle.

Jan 29, 2025 · Few insects boast a truly gold-colored body. The Golden Tortoise Beetle is even more remarkable because it can actually change its coloring at will thanks to microscopic cavities in its cuticle that house pigmentation. The beetle's metallic sheen can be dulled, and that lovely gold can become brown. Upon death, the metallic glimmer fades.

Also known as goldbugs, or golden lady bugs, golden tortoise beetles are a common garden pest that chew through the leaves of various plants, especially morning glory vines and sweet potato vines. Despite their destructive nature, golden tortoise beetles are actually rather handsome bugs.

Feb 27, 2014 · Golden tortoise beetles look similar to lady bird beetles (the Coccinellidae family), but actually belong to the Chrysomelidae, or leaf beetles: a huge family whose 37,000 members can be found munching on plants all over the world.

Golden tortoise beetle, a true marvel of nature. Scientifically known as Charidotella sexpunctata, this captivating insect captures our imagination with its striking golden hue and remarkable abilities, earning its rightful place as one of nature's living treasures.

Nov 22, 2021 · Learn about the Golden Tortoise Beetle and its identification. Get details about their larvae, their life cycle, the damage they can cause and other facts.

The golden tortoise beetle (Charidotella sexpunctata) and other tortoise beetles are nearly circular and rather flattened, and the pronotum shield completely covers the top of the head. This species is shiny metallic gold or orange when alive, and the edges of the elytral shields are transparent.

May 2, 2023 · Overall golden-orange or golden-yellow with or without black elytral spots; legs mostly yellow, body oval or almost circular-shaped, elytral margins transparent, elytra and pronotum highly reflective in living specimens ; change color when disturbed