| Physical Description: |
Females are 1/16-1/8" (2-3 mm). Males
are 1/2" length. Red to pink legs are small, and
males have two long white wings. |
| Range: |
New Mexico to Mexico. |
| Habitat: |
Deserts and dry areas. |
| Food: |
Juices of cacti, especially prickly pear |
| Lifecycle: |
Incomplete metamorphosis-3 stages |
| Winter Survival: |
As an egg |
| Lifespan: |
Females live longer than the males. |
| Adaptations: |
Cochineal bug is protected by fuzzy white
wax. |
| Sleep Cycle: |
Diurnal |
| Niche: |
Prey |
| Role to Humans: |
Beneficial |
| Population: |
Rare |
| Interesting Facts: |
Native Americans of the southwest used
this insect for a red dye. The Aztecs produced a red dye
from an insect that is called nochezli that fed on a cactus
that is called nopal. Females have no wings or legs, but
the males have wings and legs. |
| Sources: |
Insects of the Southwest, The Audubon Society
Field Guide to North American Insects and Spiders |
