A. M. Babu
Charidotella sexpunctata, family: Chrisomelidae; suborder: Polyphaga; Order Coleoptera) is a stunning insect with vibrant metallic gold color. It has a magical quality because its golden color is not permanent. The beetle can alter its color within a short time period, turning from brilliant gold to a dull, spotty reddish color. The gold color also fades when the insect dies. It has a transparent elytra covering the body concealing the head and legs as much like a tortoise, and hence the name. It measures up to 4 x 3 mm and is reported to feed only on the leaves of the plant family Convolvulaceae. But it was found feeding on the thick leaves of ‘dwarf umbrella plant’ (Schefflera arboricola) of Arialaceae family. The beetles reside under the leaves eating away the surface tissues of the leaves, leaving characteristic scratches on the lower leaf surface. Only scanty information is available about this insect in literature.
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