Golden Tortoise Beetle
This garden curiosity can change color under stress.
Turn over a morning glory leaf in summer and early fall, and you might see a tiny, golden, almost jewel-like beetle.
Gold bugs, as golden tortoise beetles are often called, feed on the undersides of morning glory and sweet potato leaves. Their larvae are also found there. Distinctively different in appearance from the adults, the larvae are covered in spines, over which is distributed fecal matter and castings from earlier moltings.
The golden tortoise beetle retains its gold color as long as all is well in its life. When disturbed, it turns a dull reddish-orange with black spots. When its dies, it's the same reddish orange.
The golden tortoise beetle (Charidotella sexpunctata bicolor) is generally not viewed as a serious pest.
Next Up
How to Get Rid of Earwigs
Earwigs aren't pretty, and they can eat your plants and invade your home. Learn how to make earwigs bug off.
Cicadas 2024: Everything You Need to Know
Two types of cicadas will emerge this year. This is a rare natural phenomenon that hasn’t happened since 1803! Learn about these fascinating creatures and find a few practical considerations for your home and garden.
How to Get Rid of Stink Bugs in My House
Brush up on stink bug basics and say so long to these indoor invaders with these quick, natural ways to keep stink bugs at bay.
How to Identify Different Types of Bees in Your Garden
Honeybees aren't the only types of bees on your block. Native bees like bumblebees, sweat bees and mason bees serve a vital role as pollinators. Learn more about native bees, why they matter, why they're in danger and what you can do to help.
How to Get Rid of Clothes and Pantry Moths
Remove and prevent pantry moths and clothing moths from your home with these simple, effective techniques.
How to Eliminate Underground Wasp Hives
Learn how to safely combat wasps and other insect pests that burrow in the soil.
How to Get Rid of Mealybugs
Learn what you need to know to get rid of mealybugs and protect your plants from this pest.
7 All-Natural Ways to Control Mosquitos
Try these natural strategies for creating a mosquito-free yard.
Humane Ways to Get Rid of Groundhogs and Keep Them Away
Got groundhogs? Discover effective, all-natural ways to keep these critters out of your yard and garden.
How to Build and Install a Bat House
Learn how to build and install a cedar bat box with these plans. Bats have many ecological benefits, including reducing the mosquito population and eliminating pests that ravage organic gardens.
