18 Spot Ladybird

Myrrha octodecimguttata

This record describes Myrrha octodecimguttata (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.

Identification and Appearance

18 Spot Ladybird - Myrrha octodecimguttata

The 18-spot Ladybird is a fairly small species. The background colouration is a rich brown (Cream-spot Ladybird is slightly darker and a larger insect). ID can be confirmed by the rounded 'M' mark on the pronotum. Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box. A tree dweller, showing a preference for the tops of Scots Pines. Widespread in Britain, but occasional and rather local in occurrence.

Classification

Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Coleoptera
Family: Coccinellidae
Genus: Myrrha

Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.

Habitat and Range

Habitat

A tree dweller, showing a preference for the tops of Scots Pines.

Seasonal Activity

Can be encountered in most months.

Additional species information

Recorded status

Widespread in Britain, but occasional and rather local in occurrence.

About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group

Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Myrrha octodecimguttata. Species-specific details appear above.

Group overview

Coleoptera is the largest order of insects with over 400,000 described species, representing ~25% of all known animal species and ~40% of all insects. In the U.S. alone, nearly 30,000 beetle species have been identified.

Ecological role of the group

Beetles are prominent decomposers, especially in forests, breaking down dead wood and recycling nutrients. As predators, they reduce populations of pest insects. Many species are also important pollinators of flowering plants.

Economic and practical significance of the group

Beetles have major economic significance: leaf beetles (Chrysomelidae) and weevils (Curculionoidea) are among the most destructive agricultural pests globally, costing billions annually, while predatory species like ladybugs provide natural pest control.

Recorded sources for this group: Britannica, Smithsonian, NCSU Entomology. Imported estimates may describe particular regions or reporting periods.

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