COASTAL FLOOD WATCH: Issued when there is a potential for at least moderate tidal flooding in the next one to two days. The chance for moderate, major, or record flooding levels triggers a coastal flood watch.
The false blister beetles, cardinal beetles, and soldier beetles also produce cantharidin. It is a poisonous blistering agent and can cause severe chemical burns. However, these same properties make it effective as a topical medication.
Among the insects, the cantharidin is produced by the male and transfered to the female during the mating. The female will cover its eggs with this compound in a defense purpose. The complete mechanism of the biosynthesis is not known at the moment.