Hippodamia variegata, the Adonis ladybird, also known as the variegated ladybug (US) and spotted amber ladybeetle (Aus), is a species of ladybeetle belonging to the family Coccinellidae, subfamily Coccinellinae.

This species is native in the Palearctic, but has also spread to the Nearctic and Oriental region. It has been found outside its native range countries such as Australia, South Africa, Kenya, India, China, Canada, the United States, and Chile, often through intended introduction to control crop pests.This species mainly inhabits fields, meadows, gardens and shrubs, more than bushes and trees. It prefers dry, rough vegetation.

Habitat and distribution

Hippodamia variegata grow up to 3–5.5 millimetres (0.12–0.22 in). These beetles have a slightly convex and rather elongated body. The first segment of the anterior legs of males is greatly expanded. Head is black, with dark eyes and white spots. Pronotum is black, with a white-yellowish border and a central black mask shaped marking. Elytra are red or orange, with a very variable number of black points (from zero up to thirteen).  One black spot surrounded by white is located on the scutellum. The legs are blackish brown, with brown ends. The underside of the body is black.

		
		
		
		

Identification

Hippodamia variegata, commonly known as the variegated lady beetle, is considered a garden pest because it feeds on aphids and other soft-bodied insects that can damage plants in gardens. While they are beneficial in controlling pest populations, their presence in large numbers can sometimes lead to a nuisance for gardeners.

garden pest

Hippodamia variegata can be considered crop pests because they have been known to feed on crops such as soybeans, corn, and various vegetables, causing damage to the plants and potentially reducing crop yields.

crop pest

Hippodamia variegata is considered a pest because they feed on aphids and other soft-bodied insects that can damage plants in gardens and crops, leading to potential economic losses and reduced crop yields.

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