Mad as a Marine Biologist

High-res Golden tortoise beetle [Charidotella sexpunctata] by Chime Tsetan They can change color, looking initially like tiny jewels, or golden ladybugs, but can alter the reflectivity of the cuticle so the outer layers become clear, revealing a ladybug type of red coloring with black spots. This color change is accomplished by microscopic valves controlling the moisture levels under the shell. 

Golden tortoise beetle [Charidotella sexpunctata] by Chime Tsetan

They can change color, looking initially like tiny jewels, or golden ladybugs, but can alter the reflectivity of the cuticle so the outer layers become clear, revealing a ladybug type of red coloring with black spots. This color change is accomplished by microscopic valves controlling the moisture levels under the shell. 

Notes

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    magnificent golden tortoise beetle. i love nature
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  24. allbrotnarsramblings reblogged this from fybiology and added:
    This is so fucking awesome. Coolest beetle ever.
  25. fybiology reblogged this from mad-as-a-marine-biologist and added:
    So. frikkin. cool! (i need this as
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