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Photo#1717862
Curly tailed peacock bug

Curly tailed peacock bug
Excelsior Springs, Clay County, Missouri, USA
August 26, 2019
Size: 4mm
I found this little, fan-tailed bug on the underside of a morning glory leaf. They are segmented and have many tiny legs, and a small brown head with (maybe pincers). The "tail" under the magnifying glass look like hairs and on each bug there is a distinctive hole in the center. They aren't very numerous, but there are at least 2 to 3 every few leaves. I believe they chew holes in leaves but I can't be sure.

They don't move much until they're bothered, in which they will curl their "tail" over their bodies. It seems they keep their "tail" up until they're touched or maybe a strong breeze.

I brought this one inside and took the picture with a magnifying glass and my phone. I watched him for a little while and he uncurled his tail for me for a second or two and curled back because I moved the newspaper.

The reason I'm submitting is because I have no idea what this insect is and I haven't found anything remotely similar in any Google search. I've seen these guys once or twice a couple years ago, around this time.

If any one can help or point me in the right direction to find out what this weird little bug is I would greatly appreciate it!

Images of this individual: tag all
Curly tailed peacock bug Curly tailed peacock bug

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Whoa, sorry for the multiple comments! :) Not sure how that happened.

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This is ...
the larva of a tortoise beetle (family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cassidinae). It would be eating the leaves, yes.

Welcome to Bugguide!

 
Thank you!
There are a lot of golden tortoise beetles on our morning glories, makes sense! A quick search brought up a bunch of photos of these guys. Quick response, thank you so much.

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