Uk Alien Gallery

Harlequin LADYBIRD - with 7-spot ladybird (on left)

SPH-3268
Harlequin LADYBIRD - with 7-spot ladybird (on left)
Harmonia axyridis
The Harlequin is a voracious predator and easily out competes our native ladybirds for food. This introduced alien threatens our 46 native ladybird species, as well as many other UK insects, including butterflies and lacewings.
It comes in a range of patterns or colour variations (forms or morph). Originally from Asia, it was probably imported on flowers from Europe.
The Harlequin problem started in North America, where they were thought to be an attractive biological control agent. H. axyridis is still being sold in the USA and continental Europe for pest control.
It s numbers are increasing annually.
Steve Hopkin
Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

© ? Steve Hopkin/ardea.com

New Zealand Flatworm

SPH-3421
New Zealand Flatworm
Arthurdendyus triangulatus
Introduced to UK from New Zealand in early 1960s. Up to 20 cm in length. Now common in Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland. Is considered a threat to earthworms as these form its main diet.
Steve Hopkin
Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

© ? Steve Hopkin/ardea.com

SPH-3406 Worm Slug (known colloquially as Bert the Gorilla !)

SPH-3406
Worm Slug (known colloquially as Bert the Gorilla !)
Location: Under stones in garden, Cornwall, UK, July 2005
Boettgerilla pallens
Native to southeastern Europe
First found in England in Windermere in 1972
Has since spread throughout most of Britain and Ireland
Steve Hopkin
Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

© Steve Hopkin/ardea.com