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The Asian Mulitcolored Lady Beetle is exceptionally good at spreading out, maiming blossoms, and permanently taking over native territories.
Historically, Lady Beetles, were recognized as a beneficial insect because of their diet. They are known to eat aphids and other plant-harming insects, making them a welcome ally in a garden or farm. This entire family of beetles was therefore 'dedicated' to 'Our Lady' in appreciation for their aid in growing food. They are called ladybugs in the U.S. and ladybirds in the U.K.. Despite working wonders to clear pests from the garden, however, the exotic Asian Multicolored Lady Beetle has become somewhat of a pest itself.
This species of Lady Beetle is actually native to China, Japan and eastern Russia. It is believed to have been introduced to North America in the late 1970's. This species is hardy and fecund, adapting to a variety of habitats and temperature ranges. Hence, it is beginning to replace the native North American species of lady beetles across the continent, taking over territories once home to native beetles.
The vexation doesn't end there. In addition to the subjugating native territory, this species overwinters in clusters, usually in warm buildings (homes, offices), where a few can make their way in from the exterior walls into the building's interior. They can emit a pungent odor (as a defense against predators) which, en masse, can create an unappealing smell in the area of the building where they congregate. They also bite, though it is not a medically significant wound.
Wingless larvae appear nothing like their smooth rounded adult forms. Instead, they are tubular like a short, small caterpillar, and they have an array of spikes along the edge of the body as well as on top. Adults have shiny, rounded bodies and can be red, orange, brown or tan with a variety of black spots on them. Their coloration varies greatly between individuals. Spot patterns are also variable.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Arthropoda
Class:Insecta
Order:Coleoptera
Family:Coccinellidae
Genus:Harmonia
Species:axyridis
Identifying Information
Scientific Name: Harmonia axyridis
Other Name(s): Asian Ladybug
Category:
Beetle
Size (Adult; Length): 4mm to 8mm (0.16in to 0.31in)
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns. Grayed-out selections indicate that the subject in question has not been reported in that particular territory. U.S. states and Canadian provinces / territories are clickable to their respective bug listings.
Beetle Anatomy
1
Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used as sensors.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
3
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
5
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
6
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
7
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.
Colors: orange; yellow; black; tan
