Harlequin Ladybird (Harmonia axyridis)
Originally from Asia, the harlequin ladybird became established in the UK in 2004. It feeds on aphids, insects and the larvae of ladybirds native to the UK. This species is 8-10mm in length, and varies in colour and markings. There are some concerns that it will out-compete some of the native aphid predators, which could lead to a decline in their numbers, as has happened in the USA where the harlequin was introduced from Japan as a form of biological control for aphids. Any means of controlling them would also be harmful to native aphid predators and other insects.
Size: 3414px × 5122px
Location: Southampton, Hampshire, England, UK
Photo credit: © Kathryn Truepenny / Alamy / Afripics
License: Royalty Free
Model Released: No
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