Novius koebelei
Olliff, 1892
Koebele's ladybird
Novius koebelei is a ladybird beetle native to Australia, first described by Olliff in 1892. The exhibits notable color variation, having been described as new six times after its original description due to this variation. It has been introduced to New Zealand, where it was first recorded in Auckland in 2006, and to California for purposes alongside N. cardinalis, though it is not believed to persist there now.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Novius koebelei: //ˈnoʊ.vi.us koʊˈɛb.li.aɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Compared to the similar Novius cardinalis, N. koebelei typically has much more strongly confluent markings. This often creates a large concurrent red patch on each , though some individuals may be entirely uniform red, and other variants exist.
Images
Distribution
Native to Australia. Established in New Zealand, where it is in origin. Introduced to California, North America for but not thought to persist there. GBIF records also indicate presence in Southern Asia.
Human Relevance
Introduced into California for alongside N. cardinalis, though it is not thought to persist there now. In New Zealand, it is an established first reported in 2006.
Similar Taxa
- Novius cardinalisSimilar distinguished by less strongly confluent markings; N. koebelei typically shows more merged markings creating larger red patches on .