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ater
@ater@flipping.rocks  ·  activity timestamp 2 weeks ago

#GoblinWeek There are lots of trickster bugs out there, but this one is one of the strangest. A blowfly larva (Rhyncomya sp) has evolved to mimic termites in appearance, chemical profile, and even behavior to fully socially integrate within the nests. The long papillae imitate termite antennae, allowing for communication with multiple individuals at once. They release pheromones that are indistinguishable from the termites' scent and even partake in grooming activities. They grow fat on termite labor before pupating and flying away.

Of course, the whole thing is backwards - what looks like red eyes on its face is actually breathing holes on its butt!

#SciArt #InsectArt #watercolor

Watercolor of a white grubby thing with lots of squiggly brown appendages and two spots that look like eyes.
Watercolor of a white grubby thing with lots of squiggly brown appendages and two spots that look like eyes.
Watercolor of a white grubby thing with lots of squiggly brown appendages and two spots that look like eyes.
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