Ladybug Metamorphosis
This slideshow requires JavaScript.
Much to my delight, many of you knew that yesterday’s mystery photo was none other than the larval stage of a ladybug (referred to as a “ladybird beetle” by entomologists, as it is not a true bug, but a beetle). I remember when I first learned what the different stages of a ladybug’s life cycle looked like – I couldn’t believe that this miniature alligator-like creature turned into a sweet little ladybug. Approximately 88% of all insects pass through four separate stages (complete metamorphosis: egg, larva, pupa, adult) by the time they reach adulthood. Ladybugs are one of these insects. The first three stages of a ladybug’s life each last anywhere from 7 to 21 days, depending on weather and food supply. An adult ladybug lives for 3 to 9 months. The larvae of all ladybug species (there are approximately 450 in New England) have a similar appearance. Yesterday’s larva, as well as today’s pupa (and accompanying shed larval skin) and adult, are Multicolored Asian Ladybugs.This entry was posted on June 13, 2012 by Mary Holland. It was filed under Arthropods, Beetles, Bugs, Insects, Invertebrates, June, Larvae, Metamorphosis, Pupae and was tagged with Complete Metamorphosis, Harmonia axyridis, Insect Metamorphosis, Insect Predators, Ladybird Beetles, Ladybugs, Metamorphosis, Multicolored Asian Ladybugs.
That’s amazing we have so many species in New England!
June 13, 2012 at 2:02 pm
I didn’t know this! Fascinating. Thanks Mary.
June 14, 2012 at 12:39 am
In what phase of their lives are they most beneficial to gardeners utilizing them as part of an IPM (integrated pest management) program?
June 15, 2012 at 11:46 am
I found the following information, though can’t confirm that it’s accurate: “One larvae will eat about 400 medium-size aphids during its development to the pupal stage. An adult ladybug may eat over 5,000 aphids during its lifetime.” So adults, I would presume, is the answer to your question!
June 15, 2012 at 12:40 pm