Nebulous Lady Beetle
Scymnus nebulosus
This record describes Scymnus nebulosus (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
phelpsii form occasionally collected in southern part of range.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera (Beetles)
- Suborder
- Polyphaga
- Superfamily
- Coccinelloidea
- Family
- Coccinellidae (Lady Beetles)
- Subfamily
- Scymninae
- Tribe
- Scymnini
- Genus
- Scymnus
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Geographic Range
s CA to BC, ID - Map typical form only occurs as far north as Oregon, " phelpsii " form occurs in northern part of range.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Scymnus nebulosus. 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 Nebulous Lady Beetle (5)
Photo credits: Contributed by Abigail Parker; Additional contributions by Mike Quinn
Frequently Asked Questions About Nebulous Lady Beetle
What is Nebulous Lady Beetle?
Nebulous Lady Beetle (Scymnus nebulosus) is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
How big is Nebulous Lady Beetle?
2-2.5 mm long, 1.4-1.95 mm wide
Where is Nebulous Lady Beetle found?
Range: s CA to BC, ID - Map typical form only occurs as far north as Oregon, phelpsii form occurs in northern part of range.