Water Ladybird
Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata
This record describes Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata (species). Recorded family: Coccinellidae. Recorded order: Coleoptera.
Identification and Appearance
The Water Ladybird (also known as the 19-Spot Ladybird although the number of slots on the elytra may vary between 15 and 21) changes colour in autumn from red to beige/ochre colour, which may prove misleading when comparing specimens for identification. It is about 3.5 to 5 mm. The pronotum has six spots. It is distinctly elongate and flattened in shape. This species is relatively easy to identify and is unlikely to be confused with anything else. However photos are always helpful to confirm your record. It is usually found by water as it feeds on the aphids on waterside rushes. The water ladybird is active from April to late summer. It overwinters between leaves and in stems of reeds, grass tussocks and other dense vegetation. This species is widespread and fairly frequent throughout England.
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Arthropoda
- Class
- Insecta
- Order
- Coleoptera
- Family
- Coccinellidae
- Genus
- Anisosticta
Imported taxonomy record. Source availability varies; see the source references and editorial policy below.
Habitat and Range
Habitat
It is usually found by water as it feeds on the aphids on waterside rushes.
Seasonal Activity
The water ladybird is active from April to late summer.
Diet and Behavior
Life History
It overwinters between leaves and in stems of reeds, grass tussocks and other dense vegetation.
Additional species information
Recorded status
This species is widespread and fairly frequent throughout England.
About Primitive Winged Insects: the wider group
Order-level background for Coleoptera, the group containing Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata. 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 Water Ladybird (4)
Frequently Asked Questions About Water Ladybird
What is Water Ladybird?
Water Ladybird (Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata) is a species in the family Coccinellidae, within the order Coleoptera.
Where is Water Ladybird found?
Habitat: It is usually found by water as it feeds on the aphids on waterside rushes.
When is Water Ladybird active?
Water Ladybird: seasonal activity - The water ladybird is active from April to late summer..
What is the life cycle of a Water Ladybird?
It overwinters between leaves and in stems of reeds, grass tussocks and other dense vegetation.