In Minnesota, no livestock mortality has been reported from cantharidin poisoning within the last ten years and blister beetles are not a major concern to alfalfa growers. However, knowledge of blister beetles may help growers avoid livestock poisoning. This species is jet-black and approximately 1 inch long. Fortunately the black blister beetle is one of least toxic of this family. Adult beetles feed on flower nectar, pollen, and vegetative portions of host plants.
Some species feed almost exclusively on flowers.
Beetles typically feed in groups on the top portion of host plants. Females lay eggs in underground masses containing from 50-300 eggs. Up to six egg masses may be laid by a single female. Blister beetles undergo hyper-metamorphosis, the larvae experience a dramatic physical change before pupation occurs. Grasshopper eggs are the sole larval food source, and first instar larvae actively search for pods of eggs to feed on.