Coccinella difficilis
Crotch, 1873
Satellite Lady Beetle
Coccinella difficilis is a small lady beetle native to western North America. measure approximately 5–6 mm in length. The exhibits distinctive coloration including a black with two pale spots, a black pronotal margin with a small pale spot, and a spot on the pronotum. Its "Satellite Lady Beetle" refers to these spot patterns. The species has been documented across nine western US states.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coccinella difficilis: /ˌkɒksɪˈnɛlə dɪˈfɪsɪlɪs/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
are distinguished from other Coccinella by the combination of: black with two pale spots; margin of pronotum black with small pale spot and spot; body length 5–6 mm. These pronotal spot patterns are key diagnostic features separating it from .
Distribution
Recorded from Arizona, California, Nevada, Utah, Oregon, Colorado, Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming in western North America.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- A Mural Like No Other | Bug Squad
- Honey Locust Borer | Beetles In The Bush
- Bug Eric: "Zombie Ladybugs"
- Tabloid Sensationalism Aside, Lady Bugs Are Still Fascinating
- Bug Eric: ID Tip: Seven-spotted or Nine-spotted Lady Beetle?
- Buprestidae | Beetles In The Bush | Page 9