Dactylopius coccus, commonly known as cochineal, is a scale insect native to tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas. It primarily feeds on the prickly pear cactus, where it produces a vibrant red pigment called carminic acid. This pigment is harvested from the female insects and is widely used as a natural dye in food, cosmetics, and textiles. Cochineal has been used for centuries, dating back to the Aztecs, who valued it for its color and trade potential. Today, it is recognized for its role in the production of carmine, a dye derived from cochineal, which is often labeled as E120 in food products.