Ladybird help

sebastianbawn · #1 (**permalink**) 09-09-2009, 08:51 PM

Hi all. Found in Bristol. I think it must be a 2-spot, does anyone know the colour form?

Dogghound · #2 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 07:46 AM

Its Harmonia axyridis the harlequin ladybird.

sebastianbawn · #3 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 05:04 PM

I know of three forms for the Harlequin (succinea, spectabilis, conspicua, but none are described as this. The closest is conspicua which is described as black with two red spots. So does anyone know what colour form they class this one as please? Thanks for the species btw Dogghound, its appreciated

aeshna5 · #4 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 05:08 PM

You've answered it yourself- it's f. conspicua!

sebastianbawn · #5 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 06:20 PM

So in f.conspicua the spots can be red or yellow?

Dogghound · #6 (**permalink**) 10-09-2009, 06:48 PM

Yes this is conspicua. They are highly variable. Also it could be either young (not fully developed) or old (faded). Most likely young as plenty are emerging around now. Also there is natural variation in any animal.