These insects are Homaemus proteus nymphs
. They are very young, first-stage babies of a type of shield-backed bug.
They gained viral fame online as the "dancing blueberries"
or "marching bugs"
. People love them because they look like tiny berries and often walk in perfect, synchronized lines.
Quick Facts
- Appearance
: They are round, shiny, and dark blue-black. They look a lot like real blueberries.
- Behavior
: When they hatch, they stick together and march in lines or changing shapes.
- Are they dangerous?
No. They are harmless to humans, but do not eat them
! They are true bugs that suck juices from plants as they grow.