All you need to know about the tiny, armoured, jewel-like marvels that inhabit forests, grasslands, agricultural fields and gardens.
What are the host plants for tortoise beetles?
Tortoise beetles choose plants of the morning glory family (Convolvulaceae) and potato family (Solanaceae) as hosts.
Who are the predators of tortoise beetles?
Birds, predatory insects, spiders and parasitoid wasps are the primary predators of tortoise beetles.
What is the role of tortoise beetles in the ecosystem?
Tortoise beetles contribute to ecological balance by controlling the growth of their host plants.
About the contributors
Femi Ezhuthupallickal Benny
Femi is a PhD student at University College London (UCL), working on the ecology and behavior of Asian giant hornets. Passionate about insects, especially wasps, she loves fieldwork in underexplored places, studying how insects interact with their environment and discovering new species while at it!
Diviya Mehra
is a graphic designer. She was the former art director of National Geographic Traveller. Her love for animals, travel and design has shaped her career through the years.
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