Common name : Ladybug
Scientific name : Coccinellidae
Family : Coccinellidae
Native to : North America (now worldwide distribution)
Interesting fact : Its scientific name has been derived from a Latin word meaning ‘scarlet’, on account of its colouring.
Hardly 8 to 18 mm in length, these small rounded bugs are not considered ‘true bugs’ by entomologists. Since their diet is comprised of scale insects and aphids, these insects are considered to be extremely useful, especially in gardens. Their diet also includes honeydew, sap, pollen, fungi and nectar. Some species of ladybugs are known to be ‘plant eaters’ and resultantly damage crops. The ladybug lays eggs close to the place where its prey is found.
