Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
Anatis labiculata (Say)
Orig. Comb:
Coccinella labiculata Say, 1824
Size
Length 7.2 to 9.5 mm, width 5.5 to 8.0 mm
(1)Identification
Light gray (f. canadensis) or deep purple (f. caseyi). Fades brown to orange in collections.
Black spots without rings.
Rounded oval shape
Explanate (helmet-shaped profile, with a flared "rim")
Range
Gordon's (1985) suggested range: CO-GA-NB-SK -
Map (1)(BG data) - seems to have expanded its range northward since Gordon's publication
Habitat
Arboreal (in trees) in forests and woods
Season
mostly: Apr-Jul (BG data)
Food
Aphids, especially in trees
Remarks
Contrary to some recent belief, the dark form of this species does not represent a darkening with age. Rather, these two forms are distinct and there are few to no intermediates.
See Also
Eye-spotted Lady Beetle, Anatis mali - typically occurs in dark reddish or orange forms with distinct pale rings around the spots. Very dark examples still retain a pale ring that's quite visible, except for extreme instances of fully dark individuals or postmortem. Shape may be less explanate than A. labiculata. Larger range extends north to Nova Scotia and west to Pacific.
Ashy Gray Lady Beetle, Olla v-nigrum - Fewer spots on elytra, more white on pronotum. Much smaller (6mm or less), less explanate shape. Larger range extends south to Florida and west to Pacific.