Question

I'm interested in Ladybugs. I read a lot about the number of spots of ladybugs. The number seems to be between 0 and 24, but as far as I can see, not every number in between exist. Up to now, I found ladybugs species with 0, 2, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 22 and 24 spots. Do more exist? Is there a scientifique site in the net with exactly that subject?

Answer 1

Ladybugs, with their varying number of spots, are a part of the diverse beetle family, which includes around 350,000 species. For those genuinely interested in the number and types of ladybugs, projects like the Lost Ladybug Project and platforms like iNaturalist can provide valuable information, as well as scientific literature and entomology departments at universities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Indeed, ladybugs, or ladybird beetles, are fascinating insects that belong to the family Coccinellidae within the order Coleoptera, which includes all beetles. Ladybugs are known for the varying number of spots on their elytra (wing covers), with species exhibiting anywhere from 0 to 24 spots. However, not every integer in this range corresponds to a species, as you have correctly noticed. The number of species of ladybugs is less precise than the number of beetle species overall, which is estimated to be about 350,000 worldwide. Each ladybug species has a fixed pattern that helps in the identification of the species.

One notable project dedicated to ladybugs and their populations is the Lost Ladybug Project initiated by Cornell University. This citizen science initiative aims to track and study ladybug species across different geographic regions. Additionally, online platforms like iNaturalist provide a database where different species of insects, including ladybugs, can be identified and recorded by both amateurs and experts. These resources can be tremendously helpful for learning more about ladybug diversity and distribution.

To discover new species or to find a comprehensive database with specific focus on the number of spots on ladybugs, you might need to delve into scientific literature and research papers regarding entomology, which are sometimes accessible via university libraries or specialized scientific databases. Observational studies and field identification guides can also be beneficial for those interested in exploring the rich variety of ladybug species. Furthermore, reaching out to a university with an entomology department may provide guidance on where to find more targeted information.