Meet the Picasso bug of Africa that looks like a living art

Meet the Picasso Bug (Image: Bart Wursten/Flicker)

In the vast expanse of Africa, nature has a way of surprising us with unexpected beauty. Among its wonders is a small insect that appears to have been painted by the brush of a master artist. This vivid creature is called the Picasso Bug, a living mosaic scurrying across the grasslands.

Why is the Picasso Bug so special?

The Picasso bug, or Sphaerocoris annulus, is a small shield-backed insect admired for its colourful patterns. Its body sports vibrant green, yellow, and black patterns mimicking brushstrokes on a canvas. The insect's colourful shell does more than fascinate the human eye. The colours serve as a warning signal to predators that it is not edible. Its natural pattern is both a work of art and a survival mechanism.

Where can this insect be found in Africa?
The Picasso bug is mainly spotted in sub-Saharan regions, where it feeds on plant sap. These insects are found in grasslands, savannas, and heavily vegetated areas. Their small size makes them easy to miss, but their striking shells catch the eye instantly. Locals often refer to them as jewels of the grass because of their glowing colours against the green backdrop.

Why do scientists equate it to art?
Scientists point out the insect's stunning symmetry and bright colours, which resemble abstract paintings. Its body patterns are laid out as if by design, similar to brushstrokes on canvas. For some, the bug is a reminder that art does not exist only in galleries but can also walk on six legs in nature. The patterns are analysed by scientists to see how insects develop warning colours and evolve to cope with predators.

The Picasso bug still fascinates travellers, photographers, and scientists who come across it in Africa. Despite its small size, the bug speaks of a larger tale of survival, aesthetics, and nature's craftsmanship written along its vibrant shell.