Predatory Beetles : Transverse lady beetles
categories: Natural Enemies Predatory Beetles
last review date: 2025-08-23 07:42
Photo by: D.G. James
Biology
The transverse lady beetle (Coccinella transversoguttata) adult is approximately ¼ inch long and rounded. The wing covers (elytra) are orange red with distinct, narrow transverse black markings. The body and pronotum (area between the head and wing cases) are black with small white or yellow patches.
The yellowish-orange, elongated eggs are laid upright in batches. The alligator-shaped larva is purple blue with orange markings.
Transverse lady beetles are native to North America but appear to be declining in abundance. In some years, C. transversoguttata is common, but more frequently it is scarce; the cause of this population decline is unknown.
Adults may consume up to 100 aphids or mites a day depending on temperature. Larvae are also voracious feeders. When prey is scarce adults can survive (but not reproduce) on nectar, honeydew, and pollen.
Larvae molt through four instars before pupating. The life cycle from egg to adult takes approximately 3-4 weeks during summer.
There are about 90 species of lady beetles in the Pacific Northwest. The five species most likely to be seen in Washington gardens include the transverse, convergent, seven-spot, multi-colored and mite-eating lady beetles.
Prey or Pest Targeted
- Lady beetles are industrious predators of not only aphids but also many other soft bodied arthropods like mites, thrips, insect eggs, scale insects and mealybugs.
Attracting and Keeping Natural Enemies
and Pollinators in Your Yard and Garden
- Native plants provide essential resources.
- Native flora also provides natural overwintering sites.
- Natural dispersion from nearby habitats ensures visitation.
- Some kinds of beneficial insects predatory mites are commercially available.
- Avoid regular use of synthetic, broad-spectrum pesticides.
- Infrequent use of certain narrow-spectrum pesticides is more compatible with some beneficials.
- Extensive lawns are also not conducive to attracting beneficial insects.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- None recommended
WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination.
Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.