Malawi Philately: Bean Blister Beetle (Mylabris dicincta)

Mylabris dicincta is a species of beetle in the Meloidae family. The scientific name of the species was first validly published in 1850 by Bertoloni.

Blister beetles are 1 to 4 cm large, colourful beetles. They can be seen eating flowers during the summer months. Most are black and yellow, black and red or all black. They may also be seen running over the soil when they are smaller and younger. The beetles destroy the flowers, especially flowers of different peas and beans. This causes no pods or fruit to form. The chemical that blister beetles emit from their bodies blisters the human skin.

Stamps & Postal Products

1970 Insects of Malawi – 9d Bean Blister Beetle

 

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