The cochineal (Dactylopius coccus) Is a scale insect, a type of sessile (immobile) parasite living on the moisture and nutrients of cacti in the genus Opuntia from this insect a natural dye called carmine is derived. The insect produces carminic acid that deters its predation by other insects, although ironically the thing that saves it from predators is the main ingredient for Carmine dye. About the insect: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cochineal About the dye: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carmine