The convergent lady beetle (Hippodamia convergens) is one of the most common lady beetles in North America, which is a great thing given that it is a common biological control agent of aphids. They lay a good chunk of eggs over a couple of months. If you have ever seen a small, black alligator-like insect, you may have seen one of its larva.
General Info About Convergent lady beetle
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Aphids, mites, scale insects, thrips, pollen (occasionally as supplementary food)
Larva Food Source
Aphids, small soft-bodied insects, insect eggs, mites, scale insects
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Convergent lady beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Appearance of Convergent lady beetle
The eggs are small and spindle-shaped and are laid near the prey in upright batches of fifteen to thirty eggs. The larvae are dark and somewhat alligator-shaped.
Egg The eggs of convergent lady beetle are typically yellowish, small, and laid in clusters. During this stage, there is no movement as the creature develops within the egg, relying on yolk reserves for growth.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of convergent lady beetle is elongated, often brightly colored with spots or stripes. It is larger than the egg and has strong mandibles for feeding, typically on aphids.
Pupal The pupa of convergent lady beetle encases itself in a protective shell, often attached to a leaf or stem. The shape is distinct from larva and adult, and inside metamorphosis occurs, reshaping body structures.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult convergent lady beetle’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 Convergent lady beetle
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
Habitat Preferences of Convergent lady beetle Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of convergent lady beetle are typically found on the underside of leaves, especially those plagued with aphids. The larvae, which are active predators, can be seen crawling on leaves and stems in search of prey. Searching for them involves inspecting plants infested with aphids or other soft-bodied insects, which serve as their primary food source. Pupae usually attach themselves to leaves or other nearby surfaces in the same areas. Adult convergent lady beetle are most commonly found on various flowering plants, they often wander to new locations in search of food or mates, so searching for them entails broad landscape observation.
When is the Best Time to Observe Convergent lady beetle
The most suitable time to find convergent lady beetle would typically be during the day when they are most active, especially in the mid-morning or late afternoon when temperatures are not at their peak.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Convergent lady beetle
Convergent lady beetle prefers mild to warm weather, so the best time to look for them is during spring to fall when the weather is not too hot or cold, and preferably when it isn't raining as they are less active in wet conditions.
How and Where Can You Find Convergent lady beetle at Different Life Stages
Egg Convergent lady beetle eggs are usually laid in clusters on the underside of leaves, often where aphids are present. To find them, inspect the leaves of plants known to host aphids, especially in the garden or agricultural fields.
Larva Larvae of convergent lady beetle are predators of soft-bodied insects and can be found actively searching for prey on plants. Look for them on vegetation, particularly where there is an abundance of aphids or similar pests.
Pupal During the pupal stage, convergent lady beetle attach themselves to a leaf or other surface and remain stationary. They can be found by carefully inspecting the stems and undersides of leaves in areas where larvae were previously abundant.
Adult Adult convergent lady beetle are often found on flowers, crops, or plants infested with their prey. They are easier to spot due to their distinctive coloration. Searching in flower beds, meadows, and agricultural areas where their food sources are plentiful is advisable.
Are Convergent lady beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Convergent lady beetle
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Stage
Adults, Larvae
Purpose
Feed Itself
Convergent lady beetle actively hunts for food primarily in its larval and adult stages. Its preference for aphids makes it an important biological control agent in agriculture. Convergent lady beetle has evolved to locate its prey by homing in on the chemical signals emitted by plants under aphid attack, ensuring a plentiful food source.
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