The Golden Tortoise Beetle
(Charidotella sexpunctata)
The golden tortoise beetle is a species of leaf-beetles measuring about 7 to 8 mms in length. They are not common in Sri Lanka. This recording was done in my back yard which is 25kms north east from Colombo.
They have an impressive metallic gold color. They change the coloration based on the situation and the environment. when disturbed, they turn into a reddish brown color. Also they play dead when disturbed.
Scientists have not examined the color-change mechanism in this species.
They don't do a lot of damage to the crop. They feed on the leaves of some climbers like bindweed.
If you know any information about their distribution, host plants and conservation status in Sri Lanka, please put in the comments below.
