Propylea

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Propylea: /prəˈpɪliə/

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Summary

Propylea quatuordecimpunctata, commonly known as the 14-spotted ladybird beetle, is a small beetle belonging to the family Coccinellidae, recognizable by its unique spotting and coloration.

Physical Characteristics

The beetles are 3.5 to 4.5 millimeters long with over 100 color and pattern variations. Background coloration ranges from cream through yellow to light orange. They typically have 14 black, almost rectangular spots on the elytra, which can fuse together creating larger markings, particularly along the midline, resembling an anchor. The pronotum is whitish or pale yellow with four to eight black spots. The antennae and legs are yellowish-brown.

Identification Tips

Look for the characteristic 14 black spots on the elytra, observing variations in color and patterns. Fused spots may render the beetle almost entirely black in some instances.

Habitat

Found in various habitats including lowlands, subalpine areas, broadleaf forests, mixed forests, meadows, gardens, parks, on grasses, herbaceous plants, bushes, and trees, as well as forest litter, brushwood, and compost.

Distribution

Native and widespread in the Palearctic including Europe, North Africa, Cyprus, and parts of Asia. Adventive and widespread in North America from southeastern Canada to the Great Lakes and Florida.

Diet

Entomophagous; feeds on aphids, Aleyrodidae, Coccoidea, and the larvae and eggs of some beetles and butterflies.

Life Cycle

Mature female lays around 400 eggs; adult beetles overwinter for two years.

Reproduction

Females lay approximately 400 eggs to compensate for high larval mortality rates.

Ecosystem Role

As a predator, it helps control aphid populations.

Economic Impact

Initially introduced in the US as a biological control agent for the Russian wheat aphid.

Evolution

First described in 1846 by Étienne Mulsant.

Misconceptions

Different color forms were once thought to be separate species due to their variability.

Tags

• Entomology
• Coccinellidae
• Biological Control
• North America
• Insect Diversity