Pine Ladybird
Exochomus quadripustulatus
This record describes Exochomus quadripustulatus (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This is a small ladybird (3 to 4 mm), with red comma-like front spots on the black elytra and a flange around the base of each elytron. The Kidneyspot Ladybird is similar but only has 2 red spots. Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box. Though mainly found in areas of Pine, it also lives on other trees and shrubs, such as Hawthorn when its preferred Pine is absent. It feeds on aphids and other pests such as scale insects. It overwinters in leaf litter, foliage and bark crevices of evergreen trees and shrubs. A reasonably common species across England.
Wikipedia reference for Exochomus quadripustulatus: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Exochomus_quadripustulatus.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Coccinellidae
- Genus
- Exochomus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Though mainly found in areas of Pine, it also lives on other trees and shrubs, such as Hawthorn when its preferred Pine is absent.
Seasonal Activity
April to October.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It feeds on aphids and other pests such as scale insects. It overwinters in leaf litter, foliage and bark crevices of evergreen trees and shrubs.
Additional species information
Recorded status
A reasonably common species across England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Exochomus quadripustulatus. 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 Pine Ladybird (3)
Frequently Asked Questions About Pine Ladybird
What is Pine Ladybird?
Pine Ladybird (Exochomus quadripustulatus) is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Pine Ladybird found?
Habitat: Though mainly found in areas of Pine, it also lives on other trees and shrubs, such as Hawthorn when its preferred Pine is absent.
When is Pine Ladybird active?
Pine Ladybird: seasonal activity - April to October..
What is the life cycle of a Pine Ladybird?
It feeds on aphids and other pests such as scale insects. It overwinters in leaf litter, foliage and bark crevices of evergreen trees and shrubs.