Scymnus frontalis
This record describes Scymnus frontalis (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
A very small member of the ladybird family, the dark elytra marked with a pair of large orange-red spots which do not reach the edges of the elytra (c.f. Scymnus interruptus ). Unless identified by a recognised expert, good photos are required that show the key ID features. Also state the size in the comments box. Sparsely vegetated and sandy areas, post industrial sites, derelict areas etc. Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
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
Sparsely vegetated and sandy areas, post industrial sites, derelict areas etc.
Seasonal Activity
Mainly from April to August.
Additional species information
Recorded status
Widespread in the southern half of Britain.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scymnus frontalis. 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 Scymnus frontalis (8)
Frequently Asked Questions About Scymnus frontalis
What is Scymnus frontalis?
Scymnus frontalis is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Scymnus frontalis found?
Habitat: Sparsely vegetated and sandy areas, post industrial sites, derelict areas etc.
When is Scymnus frontalis active?
Scymnus frontalis: seasonal activity - Mainly from April to August..