Rhyzobius chrysomeloides

Rhyzobius chrysomeloides

Alternative names
Epaulet Ladybird
Arboreal Ladybird
Description

2.3 to 3.5 mm. A hairy species typically with dark marking that forms a shield shape with two vertical lines reaching near the top corner, an anchor shape in the lower centre and a pair of tooth shaped marks. Detailed examination is needed to separate Rhyzobius chrysomeloides from similar species, especially R. litura.

Similar Species

Easily confused with the Meadow Ladybird, Rhyzobius litura. 

Identification difficulty
Identification aids

Rhyzobius chrysomeloides versus Rhyzobius litura

Recording advice

Unless identified by a recognised expert, detailed photographic evidence is required. Note the size and describe the identifying characters. It is advisable to retain the specimen in case further checks are needed.

Habitat

Associated with trees such as pines, conifers, deciduous trees and also with Ivy.

When to see it

May be encountered in most months of the year.

UK Status

First recorded in Britain as recently as 1996 but now apparently spreading in our area.

VC55 Status

Becoming more frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland, where it was first encountered in 2010.

Further Information

Epaulet and Meadow Ladybird Comparison: https://www.andrewjewels.com/meadowvarboreal

Leicestershire & Rutland Map

MAP KEY:

Yellow squares = NBN records (all known data)
Coloured circles = NatureSpot records: 2025+ | 2020-2024 | pre-2020

UK Map

Additional images

All NatureSpot records