The cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) is a scale insect, a type of immobile parasite living on the moisture and nutrients of cacti in the genus Opuntia. From this insect a natural dye called carmine is derived (the insect produces carminic acid that deters i
The cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) is a scale insect, a type of immobile parasite living on the moisture and nutrients of cacti in the genus Opuntia. From this insect a natural dye called carmine is derived (the insect produces carminic acid that deters i
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