Photo By Wim Rubers , used under CC-BY-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Hippodamia tredecimpunctata
A species of Oblong ladybird beetles, Also known as 13-spotted lady beetle, 13-spotted ladybug, Thirteen-spot ladybeetle,
Adult H. tredecimpunctata have domed backs, mainly oval, often shiny with short legs and antennae. They have two wing covers. They are usually red to orange in color. This species has thirteen dark or black spots. The larvae are slightly flattened and covered with miniature spines. Very small eggs are laid in groups of 10–50 on the undersides of leaves.
General Info About Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
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Attributes of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Colors
Black
Yellow
Red
Habitat
It is a stenotypic (limited habitat) species most associated with wet meadows, lakesides, flood plains and river deltas, marshes, and in marshes and marshy alder thickets, carr and bodden on Carex, Sparganium, Phragmites, and on Salix
Aphids, soft-bodied insects, insect eggs, small larvae of other insects, mites
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Thirteen-spotted lady beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
The Thirteen-spotted lady 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 Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Widespread
Distribution Area of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Much the northern hemisphere
Life Cycle of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Egg At this initial stage, the thirteen-spotted lady beetle exists as eggs which are typically oval or roundish and may be laid in clusters. The eggs are small and depending on the species, can vary in color. They serve as the incubation stage before larvae emerge.
Larva Upon hatching, the thirteen-spotted lady beetle larvae are worm-like and markedly different from adults. They primarily focus on feeding to grow and may molt several times, increasing in size with each molt. Larvae may have varied color patterns that often serve as camouflage.
Pupal As thirteen-spotted lady beetle transitions from larva to adult, it enters the pupal stage. Encased within a pupa, it undergoes significant transformation. The pupa may attach to a substrate and can have colors that blend with the environment, aiding in protection.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult thirteen-spotted 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 and may exhibit bright coloration which warns predators.
Interesting Facts About Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Thirteen-spotted lady beetle larvae can consume hundreds of aphids before they mature, aiding in pest control without the use of chemicals.
Scientific Classification of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
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Youth Habitat of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
Adult Habitat of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas
When is the Best Time to Observe Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Early morning or late afternoon are suitable times to find thirteen-spotted lady beetle, as these are times of peak activity. During midday, they may be less active and harder to spot.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
Warm, sunny days are ideal for finding thirteen-spotted lady beetle, as they are less active in colder temperatures and tend to hide under foliage or debris during rainy weather.
How and Where Can You Find Thirteen-spotted lady beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Thirteen-spotted lady beetle larvae are active predators and can be found on plants infested with aphids. Look for them on the underside of leaves or along stems during the growing season.
Pupal Thirteen-spotted lady beetle pupae can be found attached to leaves or other substrates near aphid populations. To find them, inspect the areas where larvae have been feeding as they are likely to pupate nearby.
Adult Thirteen-spotted lady beetle adults are conspicuous and can be found on plants, typically where there is a food source such as aphids. They can also sometimes be seen flying in search of food or mates. Searching for thirteen-spotted lady beetle on flowering plants or in fields with known aphid issues could be productive.
Are Thirteen-spotted lady beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Thirteen-spotted lady beetle
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Predators of Pests
Predators of Pests
Purpose
Feed Itself
Diets
Aphids
Thirteen-spotted lady beetle is well regarded in agricultural communities for its appetite for aphids, a common pest on various crops. During both the larval and adult stages, thirteen-spotted lady beetle consumes significant numbers of these pests to sustain itself. An interesting fact about thirteen-spotted lady beetle is that an individual can devour hundreds of aphids in its lifetime, making it a natural aid in controlling agricultural pests without the use of chemical pesticides.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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