bogleech:

subdio:

everythingfox:

Golden tortoise beetles

(via)

So pretty! Also fun, apparently (though Wikipedia says citation needed) these beetles play dead when disturbed.

@elodieunderglass

The gold sheen of these beetles is achieved because at the microscopic level, the shell is made of multiple layers with fluid filling the gaps, so what we’re seeing is the sunlight reflecting off that fluid like the sparkling surface of a lake!

These beetles can “tighten” their shell layers to divert the fluid and instantly reveal their true natural coloration, which is usually a duller red or brown. This confuses predators, who think the shiny beetle has suddenly disappeared, because, interesting fact, most animals are stupid