Chilocorinae
Scale-feeding Lady Beetles
Genus Guides
9Chilocorinae are a of lady beetles (Coccinellidae) commonly known as -feeding lady beetles. They are specialized of scale insects, though some have been observed feeding on cowpea aphids. Members are typically medium-sized with shiny, often unmarked and rounded, helmet-shaped bodies. They exhibit defensive when disturbed and may form winter .
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Chilocorinae: /ˌkaɪləˈkɔɹɪniː/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Coccinellidae by the combination of rounded, helmet-shaped body form and typically shiny, unmarked . The compact, highly convex shape differs from the more oval or elongated forms seen in many Coccinellinae. -level identification requires examination of spot patterns, coloration, and genitalia.
Images
Appearance
Medium-sized lady beetles with rounded, helmet-shaped bodies. are typically shiny and often lack spots or patterns, though some display contrasting color patterns (e.g., black with red spots). Body form is compact and highly convex.
Habitat
Associated with supporting insect , including forests, orchards, and agricultural systems. Specific microhabitat preferences vary by .
Distribution
Widespread across multiple continents; includes native to the UK (e.g., pine ladybird, kidney-spot ladybird) and North America (e.g., twice-stabbed lady beetle, Chilocorus stigma).
Seasonality
Active during warmer months; may form winter for protection and mating opportunities in spring.
Diet
Predominantly scale insects (Coccoidea); some have been observed feeding on cowpea aphids.
Host Associations
- scale insects - primary prey
- cowpea aphids - observed in some
Life Cycle
Complete with , larva, pupa, and stages. Specific developmental details not documented for the as a whole.
Behavior
Exhibits as a defense against . Forms winter in some , likely for predator protection and mate-finding.
Ecological Role
of scale insects, contributing to of these plant pests in natural and agricultural .
Human Relevance
Beneficial insects for of scale insects in orchards and ornamental plantings. Some are utilized or encouraged as biocontrol agents.
Similar Taxa
- CoccinellinaeTypically more oval or elongated body shape; often with spotted or patterned ; more including aphids
- ScymninaeGenerally smaller body size; different ecological associations; not primarily -feeding
More Details
Research Gaps
Limb capacity in Chilocorinae has not been experimentally tested, unlike many other Coccinellidae . A 2019 study on limb regeneration in lady beetles explicitly noted the lack of tested in this subfamily.