Harmonia axyridis
Harlequin Ladybird
Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird, has spread from Asia, first found in Britain in 2004. It is now common in the Redmire area. It is a predator of aphids, competing with native ladybirds. Possibly the cause of decline of the native 2-Spot Ladybird, Adalia bipunctata. The Harlequin's colouration is highly variable.
Photograph detail
Slide 1: Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird. A red form on a footbridge at Hargill, Redmire. Overhung by Sycamore trees, Acer pseudoplatanus, a rich source of aphids. November.
Slide 2: Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird. A red form on a footbridge at Hargill, Redmire. Overhung by Sycamore trees, Acer pseudoplatanus, a rich source of aphids. November.
Slide 3: Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird. A black form on a footbridge at Hargill, Redmire. Overhung by Sycamore trees, Acer pseudoplatanus, a rich source of aphids. November.
Slide 4: Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird. A black form on a footbridge at Hargill, Redmire. Overhung by Sycamore trees, Acer pseudoplatanus, a rich source of aphids. November.
Slide 5: Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird. Larva on a footbridge at Hargill, Redmire. November.
Slide 6: Harmonia axyridis, Harlequin Ladybird. Pupa. November.
Slide 7: Footbridge at Hargill, Redmire. Overhung by Sycamore trees, Acer pseudoplatanus, a rich source of aphids. November.