Stethorus punctum

Definition

A minute species of lady beetle (family Coccinellidae) native to North America, specialized as a predator of spider mites (Tetranychidae). Adults and larvae are active hunters of pest mites on agricultural and horticultural crops, making this species a significant natural enemy in integrated pest management programs. Unlike most lady beetles that feed on aphids or scale insects, Stethorus punctum is a dedicated mite predator with a slender, somewhat flattened body adapted for moving among dense webbing.

Etymology

Latin stethorus of uncertain derivation; punctum meaning 'point' or 'spot', referring to the small dorsal punctures or spotted appearance.

Example

Orchardists in the northeastern United States often conserve Stethorus punctum populations by avoiding broad-spectrum insecticides, as a single beetle larva can consume hundreds of European red mite eggs during its development.

Synonyms

• spider mite destroyer
• black mite destroyer

Related Terms

• Coccinellidae
• Biological control
• Integrated Pest Management
• Tetranychidae
• predatory beetle
• Stethorus punctillum

Usage Notes

Distinguished from the similar European species Stethorus punctillum, which has been introduced to North America for biological control. The subspecies S. p. picipes (eastern black mite destroyer) and S. p. punctum differ in elytral coloration and geographic distribution. Specialist literature may use 'Stethorus' alone to refer to the genus of mite-predatory lady beetles.