Rhyzobius forestieri
This record describes Rhyzobius forestieri (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Fairly small, about 3.2 mm long and 2.3 mm wide (slightly smaller than a 22 Spot Ladybird). The head, prothorax and elytra are very dark brown to black, and covered in short pale hairs which can give it a rather silvery appearance. It is strongly domed. The antennae and part of the abdomen (underside of the body) are both reddish-brown colour. Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box. It is recommended that specimens be retained for examination by the County Recorder for VC55. Usually found on ornamental plants in parks and gardens, but can occur in deeply shaded woodland settings, and can be searched for on Holly and Ivy during winter. May be encountered in almost any month of the year by beating various trees and bushes. The adult and larval ladybirds eat scale insects. First recorded in Britain in 2014 it has spread throughout the London area and seems to be moving further north.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Coccidulinae
- Tribe
- Coccidulini
- Genus
- Rhyzobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Usually found on ornamental plants in parks and gardens, but can occur in deeply shaded woodland settings, and can be searched for on Holly and Ivy during winter.
Seasonal Activity
May be encountered in almost any month of the year by beating various trees and bushes.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
The adult and larval ladybirds eat scale insects.
Additional species information
Recorded status
First recorded in Britain in 2014 it has spread throughout the London area and seems to be moving further north.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rhyzobius forestieri. 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 Rhyzobius forestieri (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhyzobius forestieri
What is Rhyzobius forestieri?
Rhyzobius forestieri is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Rhyzobius forestieri found?
Habitat: Usually found on ornamental plants in parks and gardens, but can occur in deeply shaded woodland settings, and can be searched for on Holly and Ivy during winter.
When is Rhyzobius forestieri active?
Rhyzobius forestieri: seasonal activity - May be encountered in almost any month of the year by beating various trees and bushes..
What is the life cycle of a Rhyzobius forestieri?
The adult and larval ladybirds eat scale insects.