The meloids segregate a defensive substance which contains a blistering agent which produces irritation and blisters. A neck between the head and thorax is characteristic of these insects. Their elytra are relatively soft.

The first instar lavae are known as triungula since they have three claws on each leg which let them attach to a surface. They wait on the flowers for the adequate visitor to stick to. The visitor is used as a means of transport to the nest where their real hosts are, the larvae the triungula will parasitize. When adults they feed on nectar and pollen.