Invasive Prettyness - _TNY_7233
The harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) is an invasive species here. Originally from eastern Asia, this species has been used as a biological pest control in greenhouses in many other parrts of the world which of course has led to them establishing themselves in the wild as well.
It's a farily large species of coccinellid beetle and with its voracious apetite it can outcompete and even attack other aphid-feeding insects. Like many other ladybirds it has a deterring chemical as protection, but this species has it in a larger concentration, making it more effective.
This particular specimen was found on a thistle near the lower dam at Åva-Stensjödal in Tyresta national park.
Invasive Prettyness - _TNY_7233
The harlequin ladybird (Harmonia axyridis) is an invasive species here. Originally from eastern Asia, this species has been used as a biological pest control in greenhouses in many other parrts of the world which of course has led to them establishing themselves in the wild as well.
It's a farily large species of coccinellid beetle and with its voracious apetite it can outcompete and even attack other aphid-feeding insects. Like many other ladybirds it has a deterring chemical as protection, but this species has it in a larger concentration, making it more effective.
This particular specimen was found on a thistle near the lower dam at Åva-Stensjödal in Tyresta national park.