The Asian Ladybeetle (Harmonia axyridis) is a common sight in many urban gardens, such as those on Governor’s Island in New York Harbor. They are voracious predators, feeding on soft-bodied arthropods like aphids and scale insects. These beetles were imported into the united states in 1916 to help control insect pests.
Although their widespread use as a biocontrol agent has helped reduce pesticide use, their populations have ballooned due to a lack of natural predator controls. However, a recent paper has discovered a fungal ectoparasite (Hesperomyces harmoniae), which infests the elytra of ladybeetles.
References:
United States Department of Agriculture. (2000, October 30). The Multicolored Asian Lady Beetle. Agricultural Research Service. https://www.ars.usda.gov/oc/br/lbeetle/index/
Haelewaters, D., Van Caenegem, W., & De Kesel, A. (2022). Hesperomyces harmoniae, a new name for a common ectoparasitic fungus on the invasive alien ladybird Harmonia axyridis. Sydowia, 75, 53-74.
Image Credits: Gaia Rueda Moreno
Biology (ecology concentration) and Environmental studies Double Major
Wildlife Photographer
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