top of page

Beetles of Zihuatanejo

ORDER COLEOPTERA

Epicauta cupraeola

Epicauta cupraeola

Epicauta cupraeola, a species of burning blister beetle, belongs to the genus Epicauta within the family Meloidae. Like other blister beetles, it is known for its ability to secrete cantharidin, a toxic compound that can cause blisters on contact with skin. Adult Feeding: The adults feed primarily on flowers, leaves, and stems of plants, often targeting legumes, which makes them potential pests in agricultural areas. Larval Feeding: The larvae are beneficial parasitoids that feed on the eggs of grasshoppers and locusts, providing natural pest control in grassland ecosystems.

bottom of page