leppäkerttuilla

Leppäkerttuilla, commonly known as ladybugs or ladybirds, are small, often brightly colored beetles belonging to the family Coccinellidae. Their distinctive dome-shaped bodies and typically red or orange elytra, adorned with black spots, make them easily recognizable. The number of spots can vary depending on the species, and some species are entirely black, brown, or even yellow.

These beneficial insects are carnivorous and play a significant role in controlling populations of agricultural pests. Their primary food source consists of aphids, but they also consume mites, scale insects, and other small, soft-bodied invertebrates. A single ladybug can consume thousands of aphids in its lifetime, making them valuable allies for gardeners and farmers.

Ladybugs undergo complete metamorphosis, progressing through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larvae are often elongated and dark-colored, resembling tiny alligators, and are also voracious predators of pests.

Found worldwide, ladybugs inhabit a variety of environments, including gardens, fields, forests, and even urban areas. They are generally considered harmless to humans and are often admired for their beauty and their contribution to natural pest control. Their presence is frequently seen as a positive sign in ecosystems.