The larvae of Sumac Leaf beetles create fecal shields, which provide them with protection from ants. Extracts from the sumac leaves in the feces keep the ants at bay. Larvae fed lettuce create shields, but receive no protection. Some larvae become totally shielded under their own feces.
John
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| Sumac Leaf beetle |
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| larvae of Sumac Leaf beetle |
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| fecal shield on Sumac Leaf beetle larva |
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