A symbiotic relationship with fungi gives lac insects their crimson hue, finds IISc study

Dried Lac Dye and clothes being dyed using Lac dye

The study from IISc found a previously unidentified yeast-like symbiont inside the lac insect Kerria lacca, which gives the insect its distinctive red colour and, may also provide other nutrients in return for shelter.

Bengaluru/ Jun 17, 2025

भार्गवी चिदंबरम्

Job Title

Writer

I'm a veterinary undergraduate student from the Pondicherry veterinary college (RIVER) though I'm originally from Chennai. I'm looking forward to 2018 when I'll be a licenced vet. I joined this venture by IISc to broaden my knowledge base and keep abreast of the latest in science.

Twitter Username

@sciresmatters

Facebook URL

https://www.facebook.com/SciResMatters/

भार्गवी चिदंबरम्

@sciresmatters

Search Research Matters