Stethorus species are specialist spider mite predators and so are important in biological control. Gut content analysis of apparently specialist predatory species often produces pollen, nectar, honeydew, sap and various fungi. In the absence of sufficient prey coccinellid larvae may predate the larvae of other ladybird species. Coleomegilla maculata DeGeer, 1775, from the U.S.A., is a predator of lepidopteran eggs and larvae. Although most species are noted as aphid and scale insect predators they also take a much wider range of prey larger species attack caterpillars and other larvae. Ladybirds occur in all the main crop producing regions. but their numbers can increase greatly in response to climate or parasite numbers and then they can do severe damage. Some species of epilachninae can be minor pests because they are phytophagous, eating the leaves of grains, potatoes and beans etc. Many have been used in orchards and arable situations as biological control agents. Generally considered useful because many species feed on species of aphid or scale insect which are agricultural or horticultural pests. They are small to medium sized beetles, 0.8-18mm, which are very variable in detail regarding colour and shape but nonetheless very characteristic and recognizable. With more than 5000 described species the ladybirds are a cosmopolitan and generally striking group.
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