Halmus

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Coccinelloidea
Family: Coccinellidae
Subfamily: Chilocorinae
Genus: Halmus

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Halmus: //ˈhal.mus//

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Summary

Halmus chalybeus, or the steelblue ladybird, is a ladybird species native to Australia and introduced in New Zealand for pest control. It is recognized for its iridescent coloration and role in managing scale insect populations.

Physical Characteristics

Rounded appearance with iridescent blue/green colouration; approximately 3–4 mm long.

Identification Tips

Look for the distinctive steelblue colouration and rounded shape which are characteristic of the steelblue ladybird.

Habitat

Common in northern regions of New Zealand, often found in citrus orchards where scale insects are prevalent.

Distribution

Native to Australia, introduced to New Zealand; now common in northern New Zealand.

Diet

Predator of other insects, primarily feeding on scale insects such as black scale, blue gum scale, and San Jose scale.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as a biological control agent by preying on pest scale insects in citrus trees.

Economic Impact

Introduced to control pest insects on citrus trees, thus potentially improving agricultural yields.

Similar Taxa

Harmonia conformis
Illeis galbula
Two-spotted lady beetle