Ironclad Beetle (Texas Ironclad Beetle)

Typically found in central and south Texas and Mexico, living on or under the bark of hardwood trees such as pecans, oaks, and mesquite.

They primarily feed on lichens and fungi growing on the bark of trees as both larvae and adults.

They are known for their incredibly hard, thick exoskeletons which protect them from predators. When threatened, they often play dead (thanatosis) by tucking their legs in and remaining motionless. They are slow-moving and flightless.

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. They benefit the ecosystem by aiding in the decomposition of fungi and lichens. Their extremely hard shells were historically sometimes used by artisans to make jewelry.