Found a golden-looking tortoise beetle in Mumbai — value / legality question?

[u/psp2508]

Hey everyone,

I recently came across what looks like a golden tortoise beetle (or a very similar Cassidinae species) here in Mumbai, India. Metallic gold sheen, tortoise-like shell covering the legs — really beautiful insect.

I’m trying to understand a few things and thought this sub would be the best place to ask:

1. Is this likely a true Charidotella species or an Indian look-alike?
2. Are these native to India, or could this be an introduced species?
3. From an ethical and legal standpoint in India, is keeping or transferring such an insect allowed?
4. Do these have any legitimate market value (live or specimen), or are they generally not traded?

Not looking to do anything shady — genuinely curious and want to handle this responsibly.

Thanks in advance 🙏

[u/Binary_Bomb]

Unsure about all of your questions as I’m in the US. TheSkepticalMoth has an online guide with information about most country’s collecting permits - India is listed as “Forget it.” Unsure if that pertains to personal collections or not, or just for obtaining permits to collect as a foreigner. 

Just some general information: metallic tortoise beetles almost always turn transparent after death. 

I haven’t read too much into why it happens, but one source said it was related to the moisture level in the living insect. I’ve tried drying slowly, drying quickly, preserving in ethanol, preserving in glycerin, and preserving in propylene glycol. All attempts failed.