Scymninae

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Suborder: Polyphaga
Superfamily: Coccinelloidea
Family: Coccinellidae
Subfamily: Scymninae

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scymninae: /ˈsɪmnɪniː/

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

Images

Hyperaspis ornatella 38283047 by Sandra H Statner. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Hyperaspis punctata 20998012 by Sam Kieschnick. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Hyperaspis connectens 60783079 by skitterbug. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Hyperaspis lugubris 214057261 by Jared Shorma. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Trident Lady Beetle by Sam Kieschnick. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Hyperaspis bigeminata 383454484 by cesar stastny. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.

Summary

Scymninae is a diverse subfamily of beetles within the Coccinellidae family, comprising at least 170 species mainly distributed across North America. They are important predators of aphids and contribute significantly to pest control in agricultural environments.

Physical Characteristics

Members of the subfamily Scymninae typically exhibit a small to medium size, characterized by their distinct rounded or oval body shapes. Their coloration can vary, often featuring patterns or spots.

Identification Tips

Look for small beetles with a rounded shape, often adorned with bright colors or spots. They may possess a set of distinctive markings or a specific color scheme depending on the genus.

Habitat

Scymninae beetles are commonly found in a variety of habitats including gardens, forests, and grasslands. They thrive in areas where their prey, such as aphids and other soft-bodied insects, are abundant.

Distribution

This subfamily has a wide distribution across North America, with at least 170 described species known to inhabit various ecological zones throughout the continent.

Diet

The primary diet consists of aphids, miroids, and other soft-bodied insects. Some Scymninae species may also feed on fungal spores.

Life Cycle

Like other beetles, Scymninae undergo complete metamorphosis, consisting of egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.

Reproduction

Reproduction typically involves egg-laying on or near suitable host plants where larvae can easily find food. Adult beetles often display specific mating behaviors during the breeding season.

Ecosystem Role

Scymninae play a crucial role in controlling pest populations, particularly aphids, thus contributing to the ecological balance in their habitats.

Economic Impact

Due to their dietary habits, they are considered beneficial insects in agricultural settings, helping to manage pest populations and reduce the need for chemical pesticides.

Collecting Methods

Sweep netting
Hand collecting
Pitfall traps

Preservation Methods

Pinning
Alcohol preservation
Drying

Evolution

The Scymninae subfamily has evolved specialized feeding mechanisms that allow them to exploit soft-bodied insects effectively, adapting to various ecological niches over time.

Similar Taxa

Misconceptions

There may be confusion with other similar beetles in the Coccinellidae family, particularly regarding their larval forms which may look similar to other pests.