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Cactus lady beetle

Cactus lady beetle

Chilocorus cacti

A species of Twice-stabbed lady beetles

Known for its preference for warm, arid environments, cactus lady beetle can be observed methodically traversing various cacti and plants. This species is particularly recognized for its vibrant, contrasting patterns that serve as a warning to potential predators, displaying a masterful use of aposematism. With a predatory appetite, this creature is both a hunter and an inadvertent gardener, specializing in the consumption of pest insects, where it plays a subtle but crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of its habitat.

General Info About Cactus lady beetle
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Attributes of Cactus lady beetle
Colors
Black
Red
Habitat
Chilocorus cacti is native to the New World where its range includes the southern United States, Mexico, Colombia, Peru and the Caribbean region. It has become established in South Africa, Eswatini, Morocco and São Tomé and Príncipe, India and New Zealand. This lady beetle is often found on prickly pear cacti (Opuntia), and on various trees, especially coconut palms.
Adult Food Sources
Scale insects, aphids, whiteflies, mites, various small arthropods
Larva Food Source
Scale insects, mealybugs, soft-bodied insects, insect eggs, small caterpillars
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Cactus lady beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Cactus lady beetle is often found near the corolla, where its fluffy hairs easily pick up pollen, assisting in the pollination of the plant.
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Predators of Cactus lady beetle Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, jumping spiders, ants, predatory insects
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Predators of Adult Cactus lady beetle
Birds, rodents, lizards, spider, mantises, predatory insects
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Interesting Facts About Cactus lady beetle
Despite their small size, cactus lady beetle are voracious predators of scale insects, often used in biological pest control.
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Scientific Classification of Cactus lady beetle
Tips for Finding Cactus lady beetle
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Youth Habitat of Cactus lady beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Cactus lady beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Deserts and Arid Regions, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Urban and Suburban Areas
Are Cactus lady beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Cactus lady beetle
Discover the hidden benefits of insects
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
Cactus lady beetle is an adept predator actively seeking out pests such as scale insects and whiteflies during its larval and adult stages. Its primary goal is to feed itself and maintain its energy. One intriguing aspect of cactus lady beetle is that they can consume hundreds of pests in their lifetime, significantly aiding in natural pest control.
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