Coccinella trifasciata

Coccinella trifasciata is also known as the three-banded lady beetle. This species possesses a red elytra suture that runs down the center of the dorsal portion of the abdomen. This individual is male, indicated by a pale head with a black base. Females are identified by a single pale band between the eyes. Like other lady beetles, both the larva and adult feed on aphids and other small insects. 

Order: Coleoptera
Family: Coccinellidae
Species: Coccinella trifasciata

Photograph: © 2010 RKD Peterson
Date of Photograph: 24 June 2010
Location: Montana, Gallatin Co. (45^o43'41" N 111^o08'11" W)