Coccidula lepida
LeConte, 1852
snow lady beetle, black arrow lady beetle
Coccidula lepida is a small lady beetle in the Coccinellidae, known by the snow lady beetle and black arrow lady beetle. measure 2.75–3.45 mm in length and are characterized by yellow with black spots, a black , and yellow body coloration. The is distributed across northern North America, with records from Quebec to New Jersey, west to Alaska and Colorado, and additional Canadian provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coccidula lepida: /kɒkˈsɪdjʊlə ˈlɛpɪdə/
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Identification
Distinguished from other Coccidula and small lady beetles by the combination of small size (under 3.5 mm), yellow with black spots, and black . The specific spot pattern and coloration separate it from similarly sized lady beetles in the tribe Coccidulini. The 'black arrow lady beetle' may refer to a particular spot configuration, though this requires verification.
Distribution
North America: Quebec to New Jersey, west to Alaska and Colorado. Canadian records include Alberta, British Columbia, and Manitoba.
Similar Taxa
- Other Coccidula speciesSimilar small size and general body form; distinguished by specific color pattern and spot configuration.
- Small members of tribe CocciduliniComparable size range and preferences; require examination of elytral pattern and coloration for separation.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
The 'black arrow lady beetle' suggests a specific elytral marking pattern, but the precise basis for this name is not detailed in available sources. The was described by LeConte in 1852.
Observation Rarity
As of the iNaturalist record cited, the had only 10 observations, suggesting it may be genuinely uncommon, undercollected, or difficult to detect due to its small size and possibly cryptic habits.