When I read about the Bombardier beetle I thought it would be a perfect topic for the 4th of July post. Unfortunately what I read (that they were like a real life firing breathing dragon) and what they are really capable of were two different things. I decided to use it anyway in honor of the celebratory explosions to occur later today.
The Bombardier is equipped with a defense mechanism that allows them to eject a hot (around boiling) noxious chemical spray,complete with a popping sound. The chemicals (hydroquinone and hydrogen peroxide) are stored in separate reservoirs and mixed in a third chamber with water and enzymes. Attacking insects and small creatures can be fatally wounded,it is also painful to human skin. There are more than 500 species of this beetle and they inhabit all continents,except Antarctic. Those of you readers in the USA can think of this critter while watching the fireworks this evening!
Happy 4th!
The Bombardier is equipped with a defense mechanism that allows them to eject a hot (around boiling) noxious chemical spray,complete with a popping sound. The chemicals (hydroquinone and hydrogen peroxide) are stored in separate reservoirs and mixed in a third chamber with water and enzymes. Attacking insects and small creatures can be fatally wounded,it is also painful to human skin. There are more than 500 species of this beetle and they inhabit all continents,except Antarctic. Those of you readers in the USA can think of this critter while watching the fireworks this evening!
Happy 4th!
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