Dusky Lady Beetles

Scymnini

Classification

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Scymnini: /ˈsɪmnɪnaɪ/

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

Images

Cryptolaemus montrouzieri InsectImages 1475022 by Quoted from source:"Image Citation: Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org" "Image Use: You must attribute the work in the manner specified (but not in any way that suggests endorsement).". Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.
Nephus binaevatus 265825249 by Stephen Thorpe. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Cryptolaemus montrouzieri InsectImages 1475022 cleaned by Quoted from source:"Image Citation: Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org" "Image Use: You must attribute the work in the manner specified (but not in any way that suggests endorsement).". Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.
Cryptolaemus montrouzieri larva InsectImages 5195077 cropped by Quoted from source:"Image Citation: Jeffrey W. Lotz, Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Bugwood.org" "Image Use: You must attribute the work in the manner specified (but not in any way that suggests endorsement).". Used under a CC BY 3.0 us license.
Scymnus loewii 180483228 by ncb1221. Used under a CC BY 4.0 license.
Clitostethus arcuatus (7263765876) by Gilles San Martin from Namur, Belgium. Used under a CC BY-SA 2.0 license.

Summary

Scymnini, commonly known as dusky ladybugs, are small beetles within the Coccinellidae family, recognized for their predatory behavior towards soft-bodied insects. Their larvae are characterized by their waxy secretions and congregational behavior.

Physical Characteristics

Adults are small, typically one or two millimeters long, with a hemispherically domed body often covered with dense hair. Only a few species have a smooth and glossy back surface.

Identification Tips

Many species can be identified by their characteristic pattern and size, though examination under a microscope is usually needed.

Habitat

Found worldwide, they are commonly associated with areas where their prey (soft-bodied insects, such as aphids and mealybugs) are prevalent.

Distribution

Worldwide distribution.

Diet

Feed on small soft-bodied insects, including aphids, spider mites, and scale insects.

Life Cycle

Beetles lay their eggs on infested leaves, where the larvae also prey on the same species as adults.

Reproduction

Eggs are laid on plants that are infested with lice or mites, allowing larvae to have immediate access to food.

Ecosystem Role

Predators of aphids and other soft-bodied insects, playing a role in controlling pest populations.

Economic Impact

Beneficial in agricultural settings for controlling pest insect populations.

Evolution

The tribe Scymnini has undergone reclassification, previously considered a subfamily and now positioned within Coccinellinae.

Similar Taxa

  • Coccinellini
  • Chilocorini

Misconceptions

May be confused with other ladybug tribes due to size and appearance.

Tags

  • Coccinellidae
  • ladybugs
  • Scymnini