Research Description:

Predator Responses to Wet Larval Shields of Geiger Tree Tortoise Beetle

Larval shields within the Cassidinae are typically solid masses of feces and exuviae, and are thought to serve a defensive function. This defense may be based upon chemical repellency, physical repellency, or a combination of the two. The larva of Eurypepla calochroma differs from most Cassidine larvae in that it carries a viscous or wet fecal shield, rather than the typical dry shield. We studied the function and mechanism of the wet fecal shield through interactions with predatory Pentatomidae and Formicidae. Larvae were collected from southern Florida during the summer and fall of 2007, and presented to predators in the laboratory. Evidence of chemical repellency was evaluated through dual choice assays involving the application of shield material to palatable prey.