Coleomegilla
Coleomegilla
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Coleoptera
- Suborder: Polyphaga
- Superfamily: Coccinelloidea
- Family: Coccinellidae
- Subfamily: Coccinellinae
- Genus: Coleomegilla
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Coleomegilla: /ˌkoʊ.lioʊ.mɛˈɡɪl.ə/
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Images
Summary
Coleomegilla maculata, known as the spotted or pink spotted lady beetle, is an important biological control agent in North America, particularly effective against aphids. Its life cycle includes significant larval predation on agricultural pest species, contributing to crop protection and reduced reliance on pesticides.
Physical Characteristics
Oblong, flattened lady beetle averaging about 6 millimetres long, generally pink in color with 6 black markings on each elytron. Thorax features two large triangular black patches. Dark-colored larvae resemble miniature alligators and grow to about 6 millimetres long.
Identification Tips
Distinguished from the seaside lady beetle which is limited to coastal habitats and has larger black markings. Observation of the elytron markings and body color can aid in identification.
Habitat
Commonly found in agricultural areas with aphid populations, such as wheat, sorghum, sweet corn, alfalfa, soybeans, peas, beans, cotton, potatoes, brassicaceous crops, tomatoes, asparagus, and apples.
Distribution
Native to North America, primarily found in agricultural regions where aphids and other prey are present.
Diet
Primarily feeds on aphids, but also consumes adelgids, mites, insect eggs, small larvae, pollen, nectar, water, and honeydew. Cannibalism may occur when normal prey is scarce.
Life Cycle
Females lay 200-1000 eggs in groups near prey, with larvae growing rapidly and pupating after four molts. Adults emerge within 3-12 days, with 2-5 generations per year. Most abundant in September, overwintering in aggregations.
Reproduction
Oviposition occurs in protected sites on stems and leaves, with eggs laid in groups of 8-15.
Ecosystem Role
Significant natural predator of aphid populations and other pest insects, contributing to biological control in agriculture.
Economic Impact
Used as a biological control agent in crop management, potentially reducing the need for chemical pesticides.
Collecting Methods
- Hand collection in the field.
- Sweep netting in crops.
Preservation Methods
- Ethanol preservation for specimens.
- Freezing for temporary preservation.
Similar Taxa
Misconceptions
May be confused with other 'spotted' lady beetles, but each species has distinct markings and ecological behaviors.
Tags
- Coleomegilla
- spotted lady beetle
- biological control
- pest management
- North America