Phytophagous-lady-beetle
Guides
Epilachna borealis
Squash Lady Beetle, Squash beetle
Epilachna borealis, commonly known as the squash lady beetle or squash beetle, is a phytophagous lady beetle native to the eastern United States. Unlike most lady beetles that are predatory, this species feeds exclusively on cucurbitaceous plants. Adults and larvae cause significant damage to squash, pumpkins, and related crops by skeletonizing leaves and feeding on fruit rinds. The species is frequently mistaken for beneficial lady beetles or cucumber beetles due to its similar appearance.
Epilachna tredecimnotata
Southern Squash Lady Beetle
Epilachna tredecimnotata is a phytophagous lady beetle in the family Coccinellidae, commonly known as the southern squash lady beetle. Adults measure 6.75–10 mm in length and are distinguished from related species by their relatively small elytral spots. The species occurs across the Caribbean, Central America, South America, and southwestern North America (western Texas to Arizona). Like other members of the genus Epilachna, it feeds on plant material rather than other insects.