Ladybugs are one of the most popular insects in the world. They come in a variety of colors, including yellow, and they are considered to be lucky symbols by many cultures. While most ladybugs are not poisonous, there is one type of yellow ladybug that can be harmful to humans. Read on to learn more about the different types of ladybugs and their respective toxicity levels.
The two main types of ladybugs are the Asian Lady Beetle and the Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle. The Asian Lady Beetle is the more common of the two and is non-poisonous to humans. The Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle, on the other hand, is poisonous if eaten. Both types of ladybugs are helpful to gardens and crops as they eat pests such as aphids.
The Asian Lady Beetle was introduced to North America in the early 1900s in an effort to control aphid populations. This type of ladybug is generally docile and does not bite or sting humans. However, there have been reports of this type of ladybug releasing a noxious odor when disturbed. Additionally, some people may have allergic reactions to the Asian Lady Beetle’s blood, which can cause redness and swelling. If you experience any negative reactions after coming into contact with an Asian Lady Beetle, it is best to seek medical help immediately.
The Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle, also known as the Coccinella septempunctata, is native to Europe. This type of ladybug was introduced to North America in the late 1800s for the same reason as the Asian Lady Beetle—to control aphid populations. The Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle is slightly larger than the Asian Lady Beetle and has a bright red body with three black spots on each side and one black spot in the center of its back. This type of ladybug can bite and sting humans, and it releases a noxious odor when disturbed. Additionally, the Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle’s blood is poisonous if ingested by humans. If you or your child ingests this type of ladybug’s blood, it is best to seek medical help immediately as symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the amount consumed.
In conclusion, there are two main types of ladybugs—the Asian Lady Beetle and the Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle. The Asian Lady Beetle is non-poisonous while the Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle is poisonous if eaten. Both types of ladybugs are helpful to gardens and crops as they eat pests such as aphids. If you or your child ingests a Seven-Spotted Lady Beetle’s blood, it is best to seek medical help immediately as symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the amount consumed.
