Field Guide to Venomous and Medically Important Invertebrates ...

Blister beetles (Family Meloidae)- Some species of blister beetles (ex. Lytta, Epicauta spp.) are
capable of excreting a toxin known as cantharadin through the joints of their legs when they are
threatened or contacted accidentally. This chemical excretion can cause burning and tingling
when it contacts human skin followed by blistering or development of fluid-filled vesicles. The
blisters are reported to be relatively painless, but secondary infections can result when they
rupture. Following breaking of the vesicles, the fluid contaminates adjacent skin causing
formation of satellite blisters. Extensive contact of the skin with cantharadin can cause further
complications including inflammation of the mouth, excess salivation, vomiting of blood,
abdominal pain, diarrhea, and painful urination. Following contact with blister beetles, the skin
should be washed with soap and water, isopropyl alcohol, or other cleansers to dilute the toxin.
Topical corticosteroids can be used to treat blisters. Emergency medical care should be sought in
severe cases or when secondary infection occurs.
Figure 158. Vesicle caused by contact with blister beetle (Family Meloidae). Photo: source
unknown.
Figure 159. Striped blister beetle (Epicauta vittata), North America. Photo: University of
Florida.
Figure 160. Spanish-fly (Lytta vesicatoria), Europe. Photo: S. Aubert, R. Hurstel, and M. Noël.
Figure 161. Mylabris quadripunctata, Middle East. Photo: Rittner Oz.
Figure 162. Unknown species of blister beetle, Panama. Photo: David Bowles and Mark.
Pomerinke.
Rove Beetles (Family Staphylinidae)- Some rove beetles produce a toxin known as pederin that
is known to cause contact dermatitis in people. An Asian species, Paederus fuscepes is