Lady beetles occur in wheat fields throughout the United States. They prey primarily on aphids (including the greenbug) but may also eat spider mites, other insect larvae and insect and mite eggs. Because of the wide climatic and geographic conditions under which wheat is grown, and the complexity of predator-prey relationships, general statements about coccinellid impact on aphid infestations are difficult to make. Under favorable conditions coccinellids are voracious predators and can drive an aphid infestation to extinction.
Above: Lady Beetle lifecycle, click on picture to enlarge.
Below: Adult lady beetles searching for food.
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