Scymnus auritus
This record describes Scymnus auritus (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
Length 2-2.5mm. A small, mostly black ladybird with reddish-brown legs. Males have an orangey-red face and front edge to the pronotum, females lack the red colour at the front. The distinctive feature is the red tip to the rear abdomen. This can sometimes be seen protruding beyond the end of the wing cases, otherwise visible when the underside is examined. This feature can be hard to see on some of the darkest specimens. The larvae have pale bodies covered in thick, waxy white filaments, which make them look similar to mealybugs. Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required and the specimen should be examined with a microscope. In the comments box, state the key or ID method used and describe the size and identifying characters. Strongly associated with Oaks. Feeds on Phylloxera , which form distinctive spotting on oak leaves. No additional images available for this species.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Coccinellidae
- Genus
- Scymnus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
Strongly associated with Oaks. Feeds on
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scymnus auritus. 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.
