Cochineal

Found on various species of prickly pear cacti (Opuntia genus) in subtropical South and North America.

Sessile parasites that feed on the moisture and nutrients of prickly pear cactus juice using piercing-sucking mouthparts.

The females are wingless and live in dense colonies covered by a protective white, waxy, cottony substance; they produce carminic acid to deter predators. Males have wings but are short-lived, appearing only to mate.

Benefits: A primary source of carmine, a natural red dye used in food and cosmetics. Risks: Generally harmless to humans but can be a pest to cactus plants; some individuals may have allergic reactions to the dye.