A small coccinellid beetle widely distributed across Europe and Asia, characterized by its distinctive spotted elytra and beneficial predatory behavior in agricultural ecosystems.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Temperate grasslands, agricultural fields, gardens, deciduous and mixed forests with abundant herbaceous vegetation and low shrubs
Ecological Role
Crucial predator of agricultural pest insects, particularly aphids, contributing to natural biological pest control and ecosystem balance
Morphology
SKIN COATYellow to cream background with 14 distinct black spots, providing camouflage and warning coloration
LIMBS WINGSSix legs with tarsal segments, capable of rapid movement; two membranous hindwings folded beneath hardened elytra
HEAD SENSORYSmall head with compound eyes, short antennae for chemical and tactile sensing
BODY STRUCTURESmall oval beetle, typically 4-5 mm in length, with compact exoskeleton and hardened wing covers
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Pavel Kirillov from St.Petersburg, Russia
