Morphological Study of Male Genitalia in Ladybird Beetles from Nashik District, Maharashtra

Abstract: The family Coccinellidae, belonging to the order Coleoptera, is ecologically and economically significant due to its dual roles as predators and phytophages. This investigation focuses on the diversity and distribution of Coccinellid beetles in the Nashik district of Maharashtra. A total of 160 beetles were documented, representing six predominant predatory species. These species fall under subfamilies including Coccinellinae, Chilocorinae, Coccidulinae, and Epilachninae. Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius) emerged as the most prevalent species, with 185 individuals observed across multiple host plants throughout the study period. The next most frequently encountered species was Hippodamia convergens, with 180 specimens recorded. Hippodamia variegata was found the dominant species of all the predatory coccinellids with 210 specimens collected from different crops and plants. This species was found throughout the survey period. The 2nd most common species was Illies cincta with 130 species specimens collected on available crops and vegetables. This species also was found throughout the study area.The members of Anegleis cardoni were collected from Cucumber, weeds, alfalfa and grasses. Cryptolaemus montrozieri specimens were found quite rare in district Nashik. All the observed species have been described for the first time from Nashik district. The presence of Cryptolaemus montrozieri was good sign for agriculture because it is fungivorous. Six species exhibited broad temporal and spatial distribution.