Meliodae of the USA
Blister Beetles Beetles

 

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Epicauta vittata Striped Blister Beetle $3.00 BugGuide 29
Lytta sayi Say's Blister Beetle $3.00 BugGuide 21

Blister Beetles are so named because of a chemical secreted by the male of the species. When squeezed the male secretes cantharidin, a chemical that can cause blistering on the human skin. Cantharidin has also been used as an aphrodisiac, but is illegal for this use in most countries since small amounts can cause kidney failure.