Autumn Colour
Please press L (or simply click the image) to view better on black!
Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) on a Grundsel (Senecio vulgaris)
The most invasive ladybird, having been first detected in Britain in the summer of 2004, the harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) is spreading fast throughout the southeast of England and is threatening the 46 species of native ladybird (Coccinellidae).
The extreme concern over the harlequin is that they are extremely effective aphid predators and have a wider food range than most aphid predators (such as native seven-spot ladybird) and so can easily out-compete them. Unlike native species the harlequin doesn't require a dormant period and so has a longer period in which to reproduce. They can also cover long distances allowing for rapid expansion. An additional threat is that if aphid supplies are low the harlequin will eat other ladybird eggs, larvae and pupae as well as butterfly and moth eggs and caterpillars. Source: www.harlequin-survey.org/default.htm
MAP: Harlequin spreading through UK: www.harlequin-survey.org/images/maps/harlequin_years_23Au...
Wanstead Park, London
Autumn Colour
Please press L (or simply click the image) to view better on black!
Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) on a Grundsel (Senecio vulgaris)
The most invasive ladybird, having been first detected in Britain in the summer of 2004, the harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) is spreading fast throughout the southeast of England and is threatening the 46 species of native ladybird (Coccinellidae).
The extreme concern over the harlequin is that they are extremely effective aphid predators and have a wider food range than most aphid predators (such as native seven-spot ladybird) and so can easily out-compete them. Unlike native species the harlequin doesn't require a dormant period and so has a longer period in which to reproduce. They can also cover long distances allowing for rapid expansion. An additional threat is that if aphid supplies are low the harlequin will eat other ladybird eggs, larvae and pupae as well as butterfly and moth eggs and caterpillars. Source: www.harlequin-survey.org/default.htm
MAP: Harlequin spreading through UK: www.harlequin-survey.org/images/maps/harlequin_years_23Au...
Wanstead Park, London