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Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle

Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle

Cheilomenes sexmaculata

A species of Cheilomenes, Also known as Six-spotted zigzag ladybird

The six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle is a common visitor to agricultural fields in India where it is considered a beneficial insect. It preys on several insects that reduce crop yield and is a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of pest control. The insect hibernates in cold temperatures, only appearing from spring through fall.

General Info About Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
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Attributes of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
herbaceous plant
Adult Food Sources
Aphids, mites, thrips, whiteflies, scale insects
Larva Food Source
Aphids, mites, insect eggs, small larvae, scale insects
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Pest-Eating Predatory
The Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle preys on common garden pests such as: aphids, whiteflies, thrips, spider mites, etc. It is a popular insect among gardeners.
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
The Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle typically preys on other arthropods and does not directly affect plants.
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
It has a wide distribution range within the Asian tropics and subtropical zones from India to Japan and parts of the Australian region. They have been introduced into the Caribbean islands as a biocontrol agent and their spread to South America was noted in 2019.
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Distribution Area of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Asian tropics and subtropical zones, India, Japan, parts of the Australian region, Caribbean islands, South America
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Life Cycle of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Egg The six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle begins life as an egg, usually oval and tiny. The egg's color may vary, but it's generally pale and located on the underside of leaves, close to food sources. The eggs are laid in clusters and hatch into larvae after a few days.
Larva Upon hatching, the six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle larvae are voracious eaters, immediately starting to feed on aphids or scale insects. They are elongated with clearly segmented bodies, often brightly colored or spotted. The larva will molt several times, growing larger with each stage.
Pupal After reaching a sufficient size, six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle larvae enter the pupal stage, attaching to a substrate and forming a protective case around themselves. The pupa may appear as a motionless, mummified version of the larva, undergoing profound internal transformation.
Adult When metamorphosis is complete, the adult six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle emerges with a hardened exoskeleton and a set of wings tucked beneath wing covers. The adult is brightly colored, often red with black spots, which acts as a warning to predators. The focus switches to dispersal and reproduction.
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Adult Size of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
3.5 - 6 mm
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Predators of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, spiders, mantises
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Predators of Adult Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Birds, spiders, reptiles, mantises, rodents
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Interesting Facts About Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle can play dead when threatened, retracting their legs and remaining motionless to confuse predators.
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Scientific Classification of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Class
Bugs
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Order
Beetles
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Family
Ladybugs
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Tips for Finding Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
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Youth Habitat of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Gardens
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Adult Habitat of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas, Gardens
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How Can You Attract Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Since six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle preys on aphids, one way to attract six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle is by having plants that attract or harbor aphids, as this will naturally draw in six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle looking for food.
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Habitat Preferences of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle are often found on the underside of leaves, particularly where aphid populations are high, as they provide a food source for the larvae. Larvae typically roam on plants, voraciously preying on aphids. As they progress to the pupal stage, they attach themselves to a leaf or stem, often in a sheltered location, to undergo transformation. Adult six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle can be seen on various plants, frequently on crop foliage or flowering plants where they feed on aphids, pollen, and nectar. To search for these insects, carefully inspect the undersides of leaves and stems in gardens or fields with high aphid presence.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
The best time to find adult six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle is usually during the daytime, particularly in the late morning or early afternoon when temperatures are warmer and they are most active.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
Warm and sunny weather is typically the most suitable for finding six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle, as they tend to be more active in these conditions. However, they may take shelter during extreme heat or rain.
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How and Where Can You Find Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle at Different Life Stages
Egg Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle eggs are typically laid on the underside of leaves, especially those with aphid colonies. To find eggs, inspect leaves carefully, especially in areas where aphids are present.
Larva Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle larvae can be found on plants infested with aphids. Look for them moving actively on leaves and stems, where they prey on aphids or other small insects.
Pupal Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle pupae are usually attached to a leaf or other surface near aphid populations. They are less mobile, so check under leaves and in sheltered areas of plants where larvae were previously found.
Adult Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle adults can be found on or near plants with aphid infestations. They are also attracted to flowers. Search around these areas, particularly during the suitable time and weather mentioned, for the best chance to spot them.
Are Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Aphids, Scale Insects, Small Caterpillars
Six-spotted zigzag ladybird beetle is an active hunter, both as an adult and larva, primarily targeting aphids and other soft-bodied pests. This insect plays a crucial role in controlling agricultural pests by devouring them to feed itself and support its offspring. It's fascinating that these tiny predators can consume hundreds of pests during their lifespan, acting as a natural pest control agent.
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