Blister Beetle

Blister Beetle (Order Coleoptera Family Meloidae)

The blister beetle has received its name from a chemical substance contained within its body, called cantharidin, which is capable of causing blisters on ones skin. This substance is extracted from certain species of blister beetle and used for medicinal purposes. Most blister beetles have elongated bodies and are usually black or brown, occasionally having bright colours. They have long, slender legs and soft bodies. MORE! [BM] {EB}