Anatis lecontei
Casey, 1899
LeConte's Giant Lady Beetle
Anatis lecontei is a large lady beetle in the Coccinellidae. It is among the largest members of its family in North America. The species has been recorded from southern Alberta to New Mexico, west to British Columbia and California. It occupies diverse from grasslands to coniferous forests.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Anatis lecontei: /əˈneɪtɪs ləˈkɒntaɪ/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other lady beetles by its notably large size (7.75-10.5 mm). The combination of yellow to brownish red coloration with two basal spots on the pronotum helps separate it from similar . The related Anatis mali (eye-spotted lady beetle) has distinct spots on the , which A. lecontei lacks.
Images
Appearance
are relatively large for lady beetles, measuring 7.75-10.5 mm in length. The body color ranges from yellow to brownish red. The pronotum often bears two basal spots.
Habitat
Occupies diverse terrestrial including grasslands, scrub oak areas, and mixed conifer forest. Has been recorded from foothill and mountain environments up to at least moderate elevations. Associated with vegetation in open areas rather than dense forest interiors.
Distribution
North America. Recorded from southern Alberta to New Mexico, west to British Columbia and California. Specifically documented in Colorado Springs area (Blodgett Peak Open Space), Alberta, British Columbia, and other western North American localities.
Seasonality
have been observed in June in Colorado. Specific seasonal patterns for other life stages are not documented.
Behavior
are active during daylight hours. No specific behavioral studies have been documented for this .
Human Relevance
Recorded during citizen science bioblitz events, contributing to regional biodiversity documentation. No documented economic or agricultural significance.
Similar Taxa
- Anatis maliSimilar large size and general body form, but distinguished by prominent spots on versus the two basal pronotal spots of A. lecontei
- Other CoccinellidaeMost other lady beetles are substantially smaller; A. lecontei is among the largest North American in the
More Details
Taxonomic history
Described by Thomas L. Casey in 1899. The specific epithet honors John L. LeConte, a prominent 19th-century American entomologist.
Conservation status
No formal conservation assessment has been published. The appears to be widespread but may be locally uncommon based on limited observation records.