Rhyzobius litura
This record describes Rhyzobius litura (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
This ladybird is not often seen or even recognised as a ladybird. Some specimens lack dark markings. Often has a dark U-shape marking on the rear wing cases with one vertical line extending half way up each wing case. Variable dark patch at the top of the wing cases behind pronotum. Easily confused with the Epaulet Ladybird, Rhyzobius chrysomeloides. Unless identified by a recognised expert, detailed photographic evidence is required. Note the size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed. It is found amongst dense patches of various plants, and often, but not always, in dry places. Widespread and generally common throughout England and lowland Wales, in the west there is a tendency towards a coastal distribution. Much more sparse and local through Scotland. Epaulet and Meadow Ladybird Comparison: https://www.andrewjewels.com/meadowvarboreal
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Coccinellidae
- Genus
- Rhyzobius
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is found amongst dense patches of various plants, and often, but not always, in dry places.
Seasonal Activity
Spring to late autumn.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
Adults hibernate near ground level.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread and generally common throughout England and lowland Wales, in the west there is a tendency towards a coastal distribution. Much more sparse and local through Scotland.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Rhyzobius litura. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhyzobius litura
What is Rhyzobius litura?
Rhyzobius litura is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Rhyzobius litura found?
Habitat: It is found amongst dense patches of various plants, and often, but not always, in dry places.
When is Rhyzobius litura active?
Rhyzobius litura: seasonal activity - Spring to late autumn..
What is the life cycle of a Rhyzobius litura?
Adults hibernate near ground level.