24 Spot Ladybird
Subcoccinella vigintiquattuorpunctata
This record describes Subcoccinella vigintiquattuorpunctata (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a very small (3 or 4 mm) orange-red ladybird marked with black spots which may vary in number. The head and pronotum are orange-red the same as the elytra and this ladybird is also hairy which gives it a dull appearance. The legs are also orange. This species is relatively easy to identify and is unlikely to be confused with anything else. However photos are always helpful to confirm your record. Grassland and meadows where this vegetarian species may be found on various grasses and low vegetation. All year round but most likely to be encountered in summer and autumn. Although widespread in England and Wales it is not particularly common.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Coccinellidae
- Genus
- Subcoccinella
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Grassland and meadows where this vegetarian species may be found on various grasses and low vegetation.
Seasonal Activity
All year round but most likely to be encountered in summer and autumn.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Although widespread in England and Wales it is not particularly common.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Subcoccinella vigintiquattuorpunctata. 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.
Photos of 24 Spot Ladybird (10)
Frequently Asked Questions About 24 Spot Ladybird
What is 24 Spot Ladybird?
24 Spot Ladybird (Subcoccinella vigintiquattuorpunctata) is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is 24 Spot Ladybird found?
Habitat: Grassland and meadows where this vegetarian species may be found on various grasses and low vegetation.
When is 24 Spot Ladybird active?
24 Spot Ladybird: seasonal activity - All year round but most likely to be encountered in summer and autumn..