The Rare Five-Spot Ladybird Coccinella quinquepunctata (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) Surviving in an Unstable Habitat

Coccinella quinquepunctata (the five-spot ladybird), was considered extinct in the UK until 1987. Since this time species is abundant, however, only very specific habitat Wales and Scotland. As a result, it classified as (RDB3) Rare, mainly result of its preferred habitat; exposed riverine sediment. This constant state alteration by natural anthropogenic means with quality being degraded to point that specialised invertebrate species, such C. , are at risk. In recent years, rapid spread invasive alien Harmonia axyridis (harlequin ladybird) has been linked decline native coccinellid numbers. There concern narrow requirements together continuing H. will abundance . Two types (exposed sediment grassland adjacent ERS) along 12 Welsh rivers were surveyed for quinquepunctata, other coccinellids. When an individual recorded, so too elevation from substrate. Plant observed on vegetation density shingle assessed broad categories. Of all recorded coccinellids, 76% while 7% A third sites had no records sites. significantly greater number within 0.5 m rather than higher up vegetation. Presence plant Himalayan balsam ( Impatiens glandulifera ) may have negative effect directly affects growth expose These findings indicate intraguild predation unlikely occur given low habitat. However, unstable nature sediment, combination threats indicates still risk sudden requires further monitoring conservation efforts.