North-american-diversity
Guides
Epicauta
Burning Blister Beetles
Epicauta is a large genus of blister beetles (family Meloidae) comprising approximately 360 described species. The genus exhibits a nearly cosmopolitan distribution, with native species on all continents except Australia and Antarctica. Adult Epicauta feed on plant foliage and flowers, while larvae are predatory specialists on grasshopper eggs. The genus is notable for producing cantharidin, a toxic terpenoid compound that serves as a chemical defense and can be lethal to vertebrates if ingested in sufficient quantities. Many species are significant agricultural pests, particularly of alfalfa and other forage crops, with documented cases of crop failure and livestock mortality from contaminated hay.