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Golden Tortoise Beetle

The golden tortoise beetle gleams like a jewel under the sun, its color shifting from gold to red with mood changes. This chameleon of the insect world thrives among the leaves, playing a vital role in plant health by managing foliage growth.

Length: 1 - 1 cm
Size
Golden
Color
Low
Aggression
Characteristics
Charidotella sexpunctata, commonly known as the golden tortoise beetle, exhibits a brilliant metallic gold color that can change to red when disturbed. Found in North and South America, this beetle inhabits areas with abundant foliage, feeding primarily on morning glory and sweet potato plants.
Distribution Range of the Golden Tortoise Beetle
Charidotella sexpunctata, commonly known as the six-spotted tortoise beetle, is native to North America. It is primarily found in the eastern United States, extending westward into the Great Plains and southward into parts of Central America.
Golden Tortoise Beetle's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
This species typically inhabits temperate regions, favoring environments where its host plants, primarily morning glories (Ipomoea spp.) and sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas), are abundant. These areas usually have moderate climates with distinct seasons, ranging from warm summers to cold winters.
Ecological Niche
Charidotella sexpunctata plays a role in the ecosystem as both a herbivore and prey for various predators. It feeds on the leaves of its host plants, often contributing to leaf damage. Its presence is an indicator of healthy plant populations and it supports biodiversity by being part of the food web, serving as prey for birds, spiders, and other insectivores.