Spotted Pink Lady Beetle

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Coleomegilla maculata: //ˌkɒliːəʊˈmɛɡɪlə ˌmækjʊˈleɪtə//

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Summary

Coleomegilla maculata is a beneficial lady beetle species in North America, recognized for its role as a predator of aphids and other pests, with distinct physical characteristics and an adaptable life cycle. Its consumption of pollen makes it unique among lady beetles.

Physical Characteristics

Typically oblong and flattened, averaging about 6 mm in length. Adults are mainly pink with 6 black markings on each elytron, but subspecies fuscilabris is bright orange or red. The thorax displays two large triangular black patches. Larvae resemble miniature alligators, are dark-colored, have three pairs of legs, and grow to about 6 mm in length.

Identification Tips

Adults have a characteristic pink color with prominent black markings on their elytra. Larvae can be identified by their dark color and alligator-like appearance.

Habitat

Prefers moist habitats where prey such as aphids are abundant, including various crops that support aphid populations like wheat, sorghum, sweet corn, soybeans, and apples.

Distribution

Found throughout North America with the range extending as far north as Maine and west to California and Mexico. It includes subspecies with regional distributions.

Diet

Primarily feeds on aphids, but also consumes mites, insect eggs, small larvae, and plant pollen, which can constitute up to 50% of its diet.

Life Cycle

The life cycle includes stages of egg, larva (which undergoes four molts), pupa, and adult. The pupal stage lasts from 3 to 12 days, with 2 to 5 generations occurring per year.

Reproduction

Females may lay from 200 to over 1,000 eggs in small clusters near prey. Eggs are spindle-shaped and deposited in protected sites on leaves/stems.

Predators

Not specifically mentioned; however, beetles may be subject to predation by birds and other natural enemies.

Ecosystem Role

Acts as an important predator of aphids and other pests, contributing to the biological control of pest populations in crops.

Economic Impact

Utilized as a biological control agent in agriculture, particularly for managing aphid populations.

Similar Taxa

• Seaside Lady Beetle

Misconceptions

Name overlaps with other species commonly referred to as 'spotted lady beetle'.

Tags

• Lady Beetle
• Biological Control
• Aphid Predator
• Coleomegilla maculata