Lady beetles (Coccinellidae)


There are 64 genera and 364 species of Coccinellidae described from Australia (Australian Faunal Directory, 2025)

A guide to the beetles of Australia by G. Hangay & P. Zborowski (CSIRO Publishing, 2010) lists the family's characteristics:

  • body broadly ovate, highly convex, usually glabrous but some finely pubescent, 1-7 mm in length
  • yellow to black, often bicoloured or spotted, some with metallic shine
  • head deflexed, concealed from above by prothorax
  • antennae short, usually 11-segmented, including a 3-segmented club
  • tarsal formula [number of tarsal segments on front, middle and hind legs] 4-4-4, but appears to be 3-3-3 as the third segment is minute and hidden

Adults and larvae of most species are predators of aphids, mealybugs, scales or other small insects and mites. Exceptions are Epilachna species, which are herbivorous on Cucurbitaceae and Solanaceae, and Illeis galbula which feeds on powdery mildews (Australian beetles, Vol. 1, eds. J.F. Lawrence & A. Slipinski, CSIRO Publishing, 2013)


Lady beetles (Coccinellidae)

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Discussion

AlisonMilton wrote:
55 min ago
@AndyH Hi Andy, When I looked at the sighting there was no photo visible. This happens sometimes that the photos don't fully upload. Not sure why I couldn't see the photo earlier but can see it now. Beautiful lady beetle. One I haven't seen before. By the way, Wellington NSW is inland on the Newel Highway a bit south of Dubbo.

Australoneda bourgeoisi
AndyH wrote:
2 hrs ago
Just realised it might be the map thats confusing things. It says Wellington-dont even know where that is. I live near Nimbin in Northern NSW where I photographed it.

Australoneda bourgeoisi
AndyH wrote:
2 hrs ago
Strange you posted that the media was missing or unclear as it appears at the top of this page. Maybe its unclear enough, the photo was taken in the shade not full sun but it is clear in the photo I provided. I have another photo of it on the arm of the chair that is in the sun but I cant find how to add this photo

Australoneda bourgeoisi
AlisonMilton wrote:
2 hrs ago
Hi AndyH, thanks for your sighting. The media you provided is missing or unclear. To help us verify this sighting, please provide additional media.

Australoneda bourgeoisi
14 Jul 2025
Thanks Clare

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