Brachiacantha decempustulata
(Melsheimer, 1847)
Ten-spotted Spurleg
Brachiacantha decempustulata is a small lady beetle in the Coccinellidae, commonly known as the ten-spotted spurleg. It is native to eastern North America, ranging from southeastern Canada to the southeastern United States. are approximately 2–2.5 mm in length and are distinguished by their oval body shape and small elytral spots. The has been documented in 457 iNaturalist observations, indicating moderate detectability by citizen scientists.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Brachiacantha decempustulata: /ˌbrækiəˈkænθə ˌdɛsɛmˌpʊˈstʊleɪtə/
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from the similar Brachiacantha felina by its oval body form and smaller spots on the . The ten-spotted pattern and minute size (2–2.5 mm) aid in field recognition. Confirmation may require examination of spot size and body proportions relative to B. felina.
Images
Distribution
Eastern North America: New Brunswick and Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Wisconsin, Louisiana, and North Dakota. Canadian records include New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Ontario.
Similar Taxa
- Brachiacantha felinaSimilar appearance, but B. decempustulata has an oval body form and smaller elytral spots
More Details
Taxonomic history
Originally described as Hyperaspis decempustulata by Melsheimer in 1847; later transferred to Brachiacantha