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Trichodes octopunctatus
T. octopunctatus is a species of Soldier or Checkered beetle belonging to the family Cleridae. It is a very hairy beetle with black head and scutellum. The elongated elytra show a bright red colour, each with four black spots. It is a very intense pollinator due to its high hairiness. Due to its coloration predator confuse it with a toxic species. This special case of mimicry is called "Batesian mimicry"
On a rockrose flower (Cistus ladanifer) surrounded by Lobonyx aeneus. Evergreen oak forest.
Camera Model: NIKON D300. Exposure Time: 1/500 sec.; f/32; ISO Speed Rating: 800. Exposure Bias: 0 EV. Focal Length: 90.0 mm. No Flash
Spotted on May 6, 2014
Submitted on Jun 17, 2014
5 Comments
Thanks Gilma
Nice spotting, arlanda.
Thanks for the information and ID on the flower also, they are gorgeous, look like paper flowers.... : )
:-) Fluffy for good pollination!
I guess that is the reason why it is so hairy!!
Super-pollinator!