Variable ladybird (Coelophora inaequalis)

🐞 Variable Ladybird (Coelophora inaequalis)

The Variable Ladybird, Coelophora inaequalis, is a distinctive and colorful member of the Coccinellidae family, known for its diverse spot patterns and roles in natural pest control. True to its name, its appearance is highly variable, making it a fascinating subject for entomologists and nature lovers alike.

🔍 Identification

• Size:
  • Approximately 4–6 mm in length
• Coloration:
  • Elytra (wing covers) are typically orange, reddish, or yellow with black spots
  • Spot patterns vary significantly—even among individuals from the same population
  • May have up to 7 black spots per elytron, sometimes forming merged or irregular shapes
• Shape:
  • Dome-shaped body typical of ladybirds
  • Legs and antennae are short and usually yellowish or light brown

🌍 Distribution & Habitat

• Range:
  • Widespread in Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines
  • Also recorded in parts of northern Australia
• Habitat:
  • Found on trees, shrubs, and crops in both natural and agricultural areas
  • Often located near aphid colonies

🍽️ Diet

• Adults and Larvae:
  • Predatory, feeding mainly on aphids and scale insects
  • Play a valuable role in biological pest control

🐣 Life Cycle

• Eggs: Laid in clusters on the underside of leaves near prey
• Larvae: Dark, spiny, and actively hunt soft-bodied insects
• Pupation: Occurs on leaves or stems
• Adults: Emerge ready to feed and mate; several generations may occur annually in warm climates

🌟 Behavior

• Activity:
  • Active during daylight hours
  • Commonly seen in gardens and agricultural fields
• Defense:
  • Like many ladybirds, can secrete alkaloid toxins from leg joints when threatened
  • Bright coloration acts as a warning to predators

✅ Ecological Importance

• Acts as a natural enemy of pests, especially aphids and scales
• Reduces the need for chemical insecticides in integrated pest management (IPM) programs

📌 Summary

The Variable Ladybird (Coelophora inaequalis) stands out for its stunning variety of spot patterns and effective role in controlling garden and crop pests. Found throughout Southeast Asia and parts of Australia, it’s both beautiful and beneficial—a true asset to ecosystems and agriculture alike.

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