Coleoptera, Coccinellidae, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas, 1773): new record in Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil

Abstract

Harmonia axyridis is a voracious aphid predator, which has been used in biological control programs in several countries. Due to its fast spreading, H. axyridis is becoming widely distributed across the world. Recently, it was detected in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, southeastern Brazil. This region shows climatic similarity to its native region and it may facilitate the establishment of H. axyridis. The species was found in some home gardens feeding on aphids and psyllids. The presence of the lady beetle in the state of Minas Gerais confirms its high spreading potential in Brazil, reinforcing the necessity for further studies on the possible impacts and control methods of its populations.