What is this thing? @lemmy.world Call me Lenny/Leni @lemm.ee 1mo ago

What is this sapphire-looking bug?

25 comments

I think it might be a Six-spotted Green Tiger Beetle (Cicindela sexguttata)
- Not saying you are wrong.
  
  But this one has eight spots. Did the bug do it to thwart those naming and categorization efforts?
  
  Wikipedia says:
  
  Both the common name and the species name refer to the six small white spots on the beetle's metallic-green to metallic-blue-green elytra. This is not always the case, however, as some individuals may have more spots, fewer spots, or none at all, presumably due to genetic variation.
- And a gorgeous example of one
- My AI image comparison concurs. What a neat looking beetle! I had no idea we had such beautiful beetles in the USA. GO USA!
Where abouts in the world was the little guy? That might help narrow things down too
- The Northeastern great lakes region of the US.
I was gonna warn you because I thought it was:

https://pictureinsect.com/wiki/Meloe_violaceus.html#:~:text=An adult violet Oil Beetle,treatments and as an aphrodisiac.

Don’t think that’s the case.
- What's to warn about regarding that one?
  
  From the above link:
  
  The 'violet Oil Beetle' secretes toxins as a defense mechanism. Contact with adults may result in skin blistering due to these toxins, known as cantharidins. Handling or crushing 'violet Oil Beetle' can lead to skin contact, causing mild to severe blistering upon touch. Ingestion, particularly dangerous for pets or children, can lead to severe internal complications. Long-term effects depend on exposure level; however, typical symptoms include skin irritation and potential damage to the digestive tract.
  
  Well when I started searching for the info I was under the impression that the toxin caused hour long painful erections. Then I found no info to support that so I just gave up 😅
You can use Google Lens instead of making photos.
- And not ask a fellow lemming and share these awesome pics and let all lemmings know about this adorable little green alien bug?
  
  I'm sure there's communities to share pictures too, or even Pixelfed. But the question could've been answered right then and there in a matter of seconds.
- And you can choose not to be an ass, but here we are.
  
  Giving useful advice = being ass. You're one big projecting clown.
- Google Lens is often mistaken. It once thought a tick was a rare form of aphid, and everyone was like "ooh we gotta see more of those".
  
  That's easy to tell when it happens and you should always cross check, but it was very easily able to identify your bug in question. I literally tested it myself before commenting.
Looks like a tiger beetle. Cool pictures!
- Thanks.

25 comments