Golden Tortoise Beetle

Interesting Fact:

The magnificent golden tortoise beetle is commonly found in eastern North America and measures five to seven millimeters in length. The beetle has an extraordinary golden hue but it can change its color as well—transforming its outer covering so it becomes transparent. This color change reveals the rest of the beetle underneath, which is black with red spots, like a ladybug. Once these beetles are collected and removed from their natural habitats, they quickly lose their color, turning mud brown. This is because they lose their liquid layer, which is formed by dew on the leaves they live on. This liquid layer gives the illusion of a golden color. Like a chameleon, it can change the golden hue to different colours to match its environment.

How It's Survived:

The camouflage trick that is has adapted, to change colour, has helped it hide and causes it's success in its environment.

How It Is Helpful to Environment:

It isn't! It's a pest; it feeds off of farmer's sweet potatoes and seeds. It kills potatoes!