A small predatory beetle belonging to the Coccinellidae family, widely distributed across North America, known for its beneficial role in agricultural pest control.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Found in diverse ecosystems including grasslands, agricultural fields, gardens, and urban landscapes across temperate and subtropical regions of North America.
Ecological Role
Critical biological control agent that consumes aphids, scale insects, and other soft-bodied agricultural pests, helping maintain ecological balance in crop systems.
Morphology
SKIN COATHard exoskeleton with aposematic coloration signaling potential toxicity to predators
LIMBS WINGSSix legs adapted for walking and climbing, two membranous hindwings folded beneath hardened elytra
HEAD SENSORYSmall head with compound eyes, short antennae for detecting chemical signals and environmental cues
BODY STRUCTUREOval-shaped beetle, typically 5-8 mm in length, with distinctive orange or red wing covers featuring variable black spots
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Juan Carlos Fonseca Mata
