Tortoise beetle Meaning, Definition & Usage

Definitions
  1. (Zoöl.), any one of numerous species of small tortoise-shaped beetles. Many of them have a brilliant metallic luster. the larvæ feed upon the leaves of various plants, and protect themselves beneath a mass of dried excrement held over the back by means of the caudal spines. The golden tortoise beetle (Cassida aurichalcea) is found on the morning-glory vine and allied plants.

Webster 1913