Taxonomy
Anisosticta novemdecimpunctata | Water Ladybird
Distribution
Status
Conservation status
Not assessed
Legal status
Not protected
Species Biology
Identification
Adult: 4mm in length. The elytra is pale beige to pink red, typically with 19 black spots. The pronotum is the same colour as the elytra, with six distinctive black wedges. Legs are reddish or brownish-pink.
Larvae: has black and white alternating lines running down its body. Lacks any colourful markings.
Diet
Feeds on aphids
Distribution
World distribution(GBIF)
It occurs across the Palearctic region. It is widespread and common in England, less common in Wales and scarce in Scotland.
Irish distribution
There is only a solitary record of this species from Ireland, and this was more than 100 years ago. The sighting was in Kenmare Wood, Killarney, Co. Kerry.
Temporal change
Records submitted to Data Centre in 2025
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How can you help
Please submit any sightings to Ladybird Survey
References
Relevant links
Water ladybird species account on the Ladybirds of Ireland website
Water ladybirds species account on the UK Ladybird Survey website