Images Dated 27th April 2005

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.
Its 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

Harlequin LADYBIRD

SPH-3224
Harlequin LADYBIRD
Orange with black spots form
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.
Its 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