When threatened, the blue death feigning beetle rolls over on its back and plays dead. Predators, such as spiders, prefer live prey. The blue coloring comes from the wax secreted by the desert-dwelling beetle to create a protective shield against dehydration and overheating.
Blue Death Feigning Beetle
Cryptoglossa verrucosus
Fact File
Lifespan: Up to 8 years
Ecological Role: Decomposer and herbivore
Habitat: Desert
Diet: Rotting plants and seedsVideo
