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Oil beetle
Meloe sp.
36.2742, -87.0642
Field Notes
Description:
The blister beetle genus Meloe is a large, widespread group commonly referred to as oil beetles. They are known as "oil beetles" because they release oily droplets of hemolymph from their joints when disturbed; this contains cantharidin, a poisonous chemical causing blistering of the skin and painful swelling. Members of this genus are typically flightless, without functional wings, and shortened elytra.
Habitat:
Cumberland River trail, Ashland City
Notes:
I didn't realize this was some kind of blister beetle but luckily it didn't release any oil on me when I was handling it.
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