Sticholotidinae

Classification

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

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Sticholotidinae: /ˌstɪk.oʊ.loʊˈtɪdɪniː/

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

Images

Summary

Sticholotidinae is a subfamily of lady beetles characterized by their small size, which varies from 1-3 mm, and certain species in the subfamily do not possess functional wings. They are significant predators of scale insects and whiteflies, making them valuable contributors to pest management in their ecosystems.

Physical Characteristics

Size ranges from 1-3 mm. Some species do not have functional wings, which is rare among North American lady beetles.

Identification Tips

Species can be identified by their small size and wing structure, particularly noting the absence of functional wings in some candidates.

Habitat

Found in areas where scale insects and whiteflies are present, indicating a preference for specific microhabitats associated with these prey species.

Distribution

Native to North America with specific occurrences tied to local environments of their prey.

Diet

Primarily feeds on scale insects and whiteflies, making them beneficial for controlling these pest populations.

Life Cycle

Life cycle details are generally not specified, but like many beetles, they undergo a complete metamorphosis including egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.

Ecosystem Role

Plays a role in natural pest control by feeding on scale insects and whiteflies.

Evolution

Sticholotidinae was established as a subfamily within Coccinellidae by Weise in 1901 and is part of a complex evolutionary history among lady beetles.