Macrophotograph of a 'seven-spot' ladybird beetle Coccinella septempunctata, feeding on aphids on a plant stalk. Aphids are the ladybird's main food source; this beetle is encouraged by gardeners since aphids are serious pests of flowers, vegetables & some fruit trees. Coccinella septem- punctata is about 7mm long, with short antennae, & despite its short legs it is a good runner and a voracious aphid hunter. Seven black spots are found on the bright red wing covers of the beetle. The red and black colour is a warning colouration to predators, because this ladybird is able to squirt distasteful fluids from its limb joints.

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