Milkweed beetle

The milkweed beetle is a small insect that belongs to the leaf beetle family. It primarily feeds on milkweed plants, which contain toxic compounds called cardenolides. These beetles have adapted to tolerate and sometimes sequester these toxins, making them less appealing or harmful to predators. They are typically shiny black or dark-colored with red or orange markings, serving as a warning of their potential toxicity. The milkweed beetle plays a role in the ecosystem by interacting with milkweed plants and serving as prey for other animals, contributing to biodiversity and ecological balance.