Ladybird and larvae

[hank]

These were on one of my cacti (outdoors).
Are they Harlequins?
If so, do I have to murder them !!

H.

[Dogghound]

Yes, they are harlequins. If you kill them it wont make a slight impact to the British population, so its upto you.

[hank]

Thanks so much for your reply. I thought that may be the case. I think I'll leave them alone.

Thanks H.

[triops]

The Harlequins, (with larva and pupa) have probably been eating pests, possibly scale insects or aphids, on your cactus!

[Paul mabbott]

Indeed, those riound things look as if they might be scale insects. I'm not aware of scales on cacti in UK - what cactus is it? Do you have other pictures of the round things?

[poschiavanus]

Originally Posted by Paul mabbott

Indeed, those riound things look as if they might be scale insects. I'm not aware of scales on cacti in UK - what cactus is it? Do you have other pictures of the round things?

Apparently Diaspis echinocacti is present in the UK: and probably more wiedspread than indicated in this link.

[hank]

Originally Posted by Paul mabbott

Indeed, those riound things look as if they might be scale insects. I'm not aware of scales on cacti in UK - what cactus is it? Do you have other pictures of the round things?

I think they are scale insects.
The cactus is some type of Opuntia.