Polychalca punctatissima

Polychalca punctatissima is a species of tortoise beetles belonging to the family Chrysomelidae, that is noteworthy for its use in Victorian jewelry.

Polychalca punctatissima can reach a length of about 13–17 millimetres (0.51–0.67 in). These beetles feed on Black Sage (Cordia cylindrostachya, Boraginaceae).

This species can be found in Brazil and Argentina.

• Polychalca punctatissima from Brazil. Mounted specimen

The new wave of Victorian Egyptomania following the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869 increased the demand for Egyptian jewelry, especially scarabs. This, combined with an increased interest in the natural world, lead to the import of Polychalca punctatissima carapaces from South America for use in jewelry as "scarabs". ^[1][2]

• Biolib
• Biol.uni.wroc.pl

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