Psyllobora
Chevrolat in Dejean, 1836
Fungus-eating Lady Beetles
Psyllobora is a of small in the , distinguished by their obligate mycophagous diet. Members feed exclusively on (Erysiphales), making them unique among Coccinellidae. The genus is represented in the Western Hemisphere by multiple , with at least 70 described species globally. Psyllobora vigintimaculata and P. vigintiduopunctata are among the most frequently encountered species in North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Psyllobora: //sɪˈloʊbərə//
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Identification
Small, rounded with distinctive spot patterns; many have 20 or 22 spots (vigintimaculata = 20-spotted, vigintiduopunctata = 22-spotted). Pale coloration with dark spots, often cream to yellowish base with black markings. Smaller than many common -feeding lady beetles. short, clubbed. Tarsal formula appears 4-4-4 but is actually cryptic 5-5-5.
Images
Habitat
Found in diverse environments supporting , including urban landscapes, gardens, agricultural settings, and natural vegetation. Associated with plants prone to powdery mildew across multiple .
Distribution
Widespread in the Western Hemisphere; documented in North America (including California, Kansas, Vermont), Central America, and South America. Also present in Europe (Denmark, Norway, Sweden per GBIF records).
Seasonality
Active from late February through mid-December in temperate regions; presence tied to availability of . habits not well documented but likely as adults in sheltered locations.
Diet
(Erysiphales); obligate mycophagy. Documented feeding on powdery mildews affecting >25 in 13 plant .
Behavior
Aggregates in response to severity, showing a positive numerical relationship between fungal and density. and both feed on mildew.
Ecological Role
Specialized agent of ; potentially useful as for mildew presence in horticultural systems.
Human Relevance
Investigated for of in managed landscapes as alternative to chemical . Presence indicates powdery mildew on plants.
Similar Taxa
- HalyziaAlso mycophagous in tribe Halyziini; Psyllobora distinguished by Western Hemisphere distribution and specific spot patterns
- Other Coccinellidae (aphid-feeding genera)Psyllobora uniquely feeds on rather than or other ; spot count and pale coloration help distinguish from predatory