The Coccinellidae – Lady Beetles

The Coccinellidae – lady beetles are best known by their common name: Ladybugs. This family includes over 6,000 species.

Characteristics

Morphology:

Lady beetles are generally small in size, with a rounded or oval body and short legs. They are characterized by their often colorful elytra adorned with black, red, yellow, or orange spots. Their vivid and distinctive appearance makes them easy to recognize.

Diet:

Lady beetles are mainly predators, feeding on a wide variety of harmful insects such as aphids, scale insects, whiteflies, and other small plant pests. Their ability to consume large quantities of prey makes them valuable allies for agriculture and gardening.

Life cycle:

Lady beetles go through a complete life cycle, including the stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Lady beetle larvae are also voracious predators and play an important role in regulating harmful insect populations.

Habitat:

Lady beetles can be found in a variety of habitats, from agricultural fields to gardens, meadows, and forests. They are often associated with the plants they feed and reproduce on.

Economic importance:

Lady beetles are widely used in biological control to manage pest populations in agriculture and horticulture. They offer a natural alternative to chemical pesticides and contribute to crop health.

Cultural symbolism:

In many cultures, lady beetles are considered lucky or symbols of good fortune. Their attractive appearance and helpful behavior have inspired various positive beliefs and superstitions about these insects.

Coccinellinae (subfamily)

Genus Coccinella

Coccinella septempunctata – Seven-spotted Lady Beetle

Genus Harmonia

Harmonia quadripunctata – Four-spotted Lady Beetle

Harmonia axyridis – Harlequin Lady Beetle