Wednesday 16 July 2008

Temporary Captive

Acting on a call for help from Denis a day ago with regard to identification of his little bug, my subsequent research led me to think it could have been the larva of a native Ladybird (Cryptolaemus montrouzieri) commonly known as the Mealybug Ladybird. Larvae of this species mimic their prey. This Ladybird is native to NSW and Qld.

I also looked at centipedes and I suspect Chris' identification of a really immature House Centipede (Scutigerid) is most likely the correct one.

It's a bit ironic that I found this Common Spotted Ladybird (Harmonia conformis) on my bathroom window today!

(Click to enlarge)


Yes - it was released onto my rose garden the instant our photo session ceased!

Order: Coleoptera

Family: Coccinellidae

5 comments:

Denis Wilson said...

Hi Junior Lepid
Thanks for the suggestion of the Mealy-bug Ladybird. I did not know they existed, but I believe I have seen such adults, but thought they were a regular beetle. I am sure it is not that creature, but the more we learn.....
Speaking of that, I have linked back to your other website, re the Orange-peel Fungus, which I now realise was not a good suggestion.
But we both were working on the other's queries. Not a bad thing to do.
Thanks
Denis

Mosura said...

We get Harmonia conformis down here but I haven't seen one in winter.

Junior Lepid said...

Thanks Denis - the more we learn is spot on and it's ongoing! I think it's great some of us with a common interest have been able to link up via these blogs.

Mosura, that little fact hadn't escaped my notice either. I normally see Ladybirds from October, not July!

Duncan said...

I've got a photo of a nice little beetle that I'll post soon JL, similar to a ladybird, one for you to help me with.

Junior Lepid said...

LOL - don't bet on it, Duncan - but I will be interested to look at it.