Monday, August 20, 2012

Golden tortoise beetle


Image from 9wows, via Pharyngula.

Also, according to Wikipedia:
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.