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Orange-spotted Lady Beetle

Brachiacantha ursina

The size of this species' spots vary from small and well-separated to large and joined together, giving it a range of color forms. The two extremes are illustrated here - be sure to scroll down the page to see both images.

Scymninae

Brachiacantha

ursina

The Latin word ursina means "bear-like." Several species of Brachiacantha have animal-related names, such as felina (cat-like) and testudo (tortoise). The English name refers to its distinctive coloration. However, the color form with large confluent orange markings can appear to be orange with black spots.

Size: 2 - 2.5 mm

Food: Poorly known; possibly scale insects

Habitat: Poorly known

Range: Southeastern Canada to South Carolina, west/northwest to south central Canada

Similar species: The similarly-patterned Brachicantha decempustulata and Brachiacantha felina have yellow and red spots, respectively