Photo By judygva , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Seven-spotted ladybug
Coccinella septempunctata
A species of Lady beetles, Also known as Sevenspotted ladybeetle, 7-spot ladybird, Seven-spotted ladybird beetle, Seven-spotted ladybird
Seven-spotted ladybug (Coccinella septempunctata), known in North America as the "seven-spotted ladybug," is the most common species of ladybird in Europe and the official state insect of five U.S. states. While not native to North America, it has established itself there after being introduced to control aphid populations. Its bright coloring deters predators, and it may also play dead or secrete foul-smelling liquids to discourage consumption.
General Info About Seven-spotted ladybug
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Attributes of Seven-spotted ladybug
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Seven-spotted ladybug is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
The Seven-spotted ladybug 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 Seven-spotted ladybug 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 Seven-spotted ladybug 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 Seven-spotted ladybug
It is native to Europe, Asian and North American. And now it is worldwide.
Distribution Area of Seven-spotted ladybug
Europe, Asia, Northern Africa
Appearance of Seven-spotted ladybug
The body is domed with black head and thorax and a pair of white spots each. The elytra are bright red or orange with seven black round spots. A pair of short antennae and three pairs of short feet are not always observed. The eggs are orange-yellow, spindle-shaped, stacked on the back of leaves, and each leaf has about 20-40 grains. Larvas and adults are very different in appearance. They are spindle-shaped carnose without wings. There are irregular orange-yellow spots and thorn warts on the back, and three pairs of feet are clearly visible.
Egg At this initial stage, the eggs of seven-spotted ladybug are usually laid in clusters. They are small, oval, and yellowish in color, often placed near food sources.
Larva Larvae emerge from the eggs, resembling small caterpillars. These larvae are elongated, with distinct black and yellow patterning and are voracious feeders, primarily on aphids.
Pupal The transition phase for seven-spotted ladybug involves the larva forming a pupa. This stage is inactive, and the pupa may be attached to a leaf or hidden within debris.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult seven-spotted ladybug’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Youth Habitat of Seven-spotted ladybug
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens, Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
Adult Habitat of Seven-spotted ladybug
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Gardens, Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
Habitat Preferences of Seven-spotted ladybug Through Different Life Stages
To study seven-spotted ladybug across distinct life stages, different habitats must be sought out. The eggs of seven-spotted ladybug are typically deposited on the underside of leaves, particularly where aphids are abundant, serving as a food source for the hatching larvae. Larvae, upon emerging, are frequently observed on vegetation, primarily in gardens and fields, where they voraciously prey on aphids. As pupae, seven-spotted ladybug are commonly attached to leaves or stems in sheltered places, blending in with the greenery. Finally, adult seven-spotted ladybug are widespread, found in both natural and urban environments - on plants, within crop fields, gardens, and occasionally indoors near windows or light sources, searching for prey or mates.
When is the Best Time to Observe Seven-spotted ladybug
The most suitable times are late spring to early fall, which are the active seasons for seven-spotted ladybug when temperatures are warm.
Are Seven-spotted ladybug harmful?
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Seven-spotted ladybug sometimes also can be a pest. Seven-spotted ladybug has become a nuisance by invading some vineyards.
Are Seven-spotted ladybug harmful to humans?
Affecting the wine industry. The seven-spotted ladybug in the vineyard might be collected along with the ripened grapes and mixed in the winemaking process. As result, these seven-spotted ladybug will affect the flavor and quality of the wine.
Beneficial Effects of Seven-spotted ladybug
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Larvae
Diets
Aphids
Seven-spotted ladybug primarily targets aphids as its preferred diet, efficiently controlling their populations in various ecosystems. Both adult and larval stages voraciously feed on pests to sustain themselves and their offspring, showcasing a natural pest management method. Intriguingly, seven-spotted ladybug individuals can consume hundreds of aphids, underscoring their role as biological control agents.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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