Seven-Spot Ladybird vs Swede Midge
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Seven-Spot Ladybird | Swede Midge |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Coccinella septempunctata | Contarinia nasturtii |
| Order | Coleoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Coccinellidae | Cecidomyiidae |
| Size | 5-8 mm | 1.5-2 mm |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Predators | Gall Makers |
| Regions | Europe, Asia, North America | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Seven-Spot Ladybird
The most common ladybird in Europe. Its bright red coloring with seven black spots warns predators of its bitter taste. A voracious predator of aphids.
Did You Know?
A single seven-spot ladybird can eat over 5,000 aphids in its lifetime, making it one of the most effective biological pest controllers.
Swede Midge
A minute yellowish-brown gall midge that attacks brassica crops by distorting growing points. Its tiny larvae feed inside developing buds, causing characteristic twisted and swollen growth.
Did You Know?
It was first detected in North America in 2000 and has since become a major emerging pest of brassica crops.