Larch Ladybird
Aphidecta obliterata
This record describes Aphidecta obliterata (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Size 4 to 5 mm. Elytra are light tan brown in colour, with very little patterning except perhaps a dark oblique line posteriorly and variable small blotches and spots. The pronotum is beige with brown M mark, and the legs are brown. Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box. Needled conifers, especially Larch, but also on other firs, pines, etc. Probably relies on camouflage for defence against birds, but can also reflex bleed. It overwinters in the bark crevices of conifers. Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Coccinellinae
- Genus
- Aphidecta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Needled conifers, especially Larch, but also on other firs, pines, etc.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly in spring and summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Probably relies on camouflage for defence against birds, but can also reflex bleed. It overwinters in the bark crevices of conifers.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Aphidecta obliterata. 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 Larch Ladybird (7)
Frequently Asked Questions About Larch Ladybird
What is Larch Ladybird?
Larch Ladybird (Aphidecta obliterata) is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Larch Ladybird?
4 to 5 mm. Elytra are light tan brown in colour, with very little patterning except perhaps a dark oblique line posteriorly and variable small blotches and spots. The pronotum is beige with brown M mark, and the legs are brown.
Where is Larch Ladybird found?
Habitat: Needled conifers, especially Larch, but also on other firs, pines, etc.
When is Larch Ladybird active?
Larch Ladybird: seasonal activity - Mainly in spring and summer..
What is the life cycle of a Larch Ladybird?
Probably relies on camouflage for defence against birds, but can also reflex bleed. It overwinters in the bark crevices of conifers.