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Day 51 - Meloe


The hemolymph of the blister beetle contains cantharidin, which causes blistering on contact with skin if the beetle is disturbed (by rubbing or crushing). The beetles are actually used as an active ingredient in some wart removers. This particular genus (Meloe) is known as an oil beetle or short-winged blister beetle.

[February 20, 2016]

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