Hippodamia

Chevrolat in Dejean, 1836

Oblong Lady Beetles, Lady Beetles, Ladybugs

Species Guides

18

Hippodamia is a of lady beetles (Coccinellidae) containing several economically important . The most common native North American species is H. convergens, which forms numbering in the millions and is widely used in . Another notable species, H. variegata, has a distribution across both hemispheres. Members of this genus are primarily aphidophagous valued in agriculture for pest management.

Hippodamia variegata by (c) Name, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Name. Used under a CC-BY license.Hippodamia apicalis by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.Hippodamia apicalis by (c) Trevor Van Loon, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Trevor Van Loon. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Hippodamia: /ˌhɪpoʊˈdeɪmiə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

Oblong body shape distinguishes Hippodamia from more rounded lady beetle . identification relies on pattern and number of spots on , extent of white markings on the prothorax, and precise arrangement of convergent facial markings (particularly prominent in H. convergens). H. convergens shows 12 black spots on orange-red elytra with distinctive white convergent lines on the pronotum. H. variegata typically displays a more variable spot pattern with 13-20 spots.

Images

Habitat

H. convergens occurs in grasslands, forests, agricultural fields, gardens, and natural parks. H. undecimnotata forms at sites featuring prominent visual landmarks with low risk, despite unfavorable abiotic conditions for survival. H. variegata occupies diverse across its wide geographic range.

Distribution

H. convergens: throughout North America. H. variegata: , occurring widely across both Northern and Southern Hemispheres. H. undecimnotata: distribution not fully detailed in available sources.

Seasonality

H. convergens migrates from mountains toward the coast in early spring and reverses direction in fall. form in late season. H. undecimnotata exhibits aggregations with post-aggregation and reproductive following the diapause period.

Diet

Aphids constitute the primary prey. H. convergens also consumes , , and other soft-bodied insects; feeds on pollen and nectar when prey is scarce. H. variegata is aphidophagous with documented cannibalistic . Specific prey for H. undecimnotata not detailed in available sources.

Life Cycle

to development duration varies by and prey type. H. convergens: 22.5-34.1 days depending on prey species (longest on Brevicoryne brassicae, shortest on Myzus persicae). Larval stages are aphidophagous. H. undecimnotata: adults undergo in before .

Behavior

H. convergens forms mass ; wild-collected from these aggregations for commercial distribution. H. undecimnotata exhibits aggregations functioning as hidden for mate-finding, with numerous matings occurring at aggregation sites. These matings are energetically inexpensive for females, conserving energy for post-aggregation . H. variegata displays cannibalistic behavior.

Ecological Role

Important and other soft-bodied insects in agricultural and natural . H. convergens serves as a agent for aphids, , and , reducing reliance on chemical . H. undecimnotata contributes to through mate-finding .

Human Relevance

H. convergens is one of the few natural enemies wild-collected from mass for commercial distribution to the pest control industry. Widely used in programs. Occasionally bites humans, apparently to collect salt rather than defensively. Larvae sometimes mistaken for pests and killed by gardeners.

Similar Taxa

  • CoccinellaBoth are aphidophagous Coccinellidae, but Coccinella typically have rounder body shapes and different spot patterns (e.g., C. septempunctata with seven spots).
  • HarmoniaHarmonia axyridis (multicolored Asian lady beetle) is also used for and overlaps in prey use, but exhibits more variable coloration and pattern, and has become in some regions where Hippodamia are native.
  • CyclonedaC. sanguinea (spotless lady beetle) lacks spots entirely, distinguishing it from spotted Hippodamia ; also differs in pronotal markings.

Misconceptions

Larvae of Hippodamia are frequently mistaken for pests due to their alligator-like appearance and killed by novice gardeners, despite being voracious . The massive radar-detected 'bloom' near San Diego in June 2019 was attributed to H. convergens by some sources, though entomologists questioned this identification due to late season timing and cold temperatures potentially unsuitable for .

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Sources and further reading