Twice-struck Lady Beetle
Axion plagiatum
This record describes Axion plagiatum (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Gordon's figures uncommon example of Axion plagiatum (Olivier) w smaller dorsal spots, similar to Chilocorus stigma (Say), see below: = Det. James Bailey, 2015
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Chilocorinae
- Genus
- Axion
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
OR-CA-e.TX-OK - Map (cross hatching) - Note: Gordon's map is mislabeled, A. plagiatum is the western species.
Additional species information
Species notes from the sources
Etymology: Axion plagiatum ( Olivier 1808)
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Axion plagiatum. 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 Twice-struck Lady Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Tim Moyer; Additional contributions by Chuck Entz , Mike Quinn , v belov , James Bailey , Abigail Parker , PaleoJon
Frequently Asked Questions About Twice-struck Lady Beetle
What is Twice-struck Lady Beetle?
Twice-struck Lady Beetle (Axion plagiatum) is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Twice-struck Lady Beetle?
Length 5.6-6.4 mm
How do you identify Twice-struck Lady Beetle?
Gordon's figures uncommon example of Axion plagiatum (Olivier) w smaller dorsal spots, similar to Chilocorus stigma (Say), see below: = Det. James Bailey, 2015
Where is Twice-struck Lady Beetle found?
Range: OR-CA-e.TX-OK - Map (cross hatching) - Note: Gordon's map is mislabeled, A. plagiatum is the western species.