Cassidid

/ˈkæsɪdɪd/ noun

Definition

A member of the beetle family Cassididae, also known as tortoise beetles or leaf beetles with helmet-like shells.

Etymology

From Cassididae, the scientific family name, plus -id, a suffix used to denote a member of that family.

Kelly Says

Cassidids have evolved a bizarre defense mechanism—some larvae can catapult their own poop at predators using a special tail-like appendage, like tiny fecal warriors!

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