Author/Source: Centre for Ecology and Hydrology
Link: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141013090459.htm
Summary:
A new species of the ladybug has outcompeted the native species in urban areas such as in the United Kingdoms. The population of the harlequin ladybug has grown rapidly, while the native ladybird species has been suffering from the combined effects of habitat destruction or deterioration and competition with this invasive alien. The harlequin ladybug has a wider diet range and a high reproduction rate. To study the environmental factors that affect the harlequin ladybug, a new scientific study has been developed to understand the effect of climate and landscape factors in relation to the harlequin ladybug. It was discovered that the climate influenced the speed of the spread of different colored ladybugs. The habitat of the harlequin ladybug also seemed to play a role in the speed of invasion. The harlequin ladybug is best adapted to sunnier areas and has a preference towards urban areas. Coniferous forests are more resistant to the invasion of this alien species, and provides a refuge for the native species of ladybirds.
Relevance:
This article relates to our study of ecology, specifically how invasive species play an impact on our environment. Invasive species are species not native to an area, and generally outcompete a native species, and therefore affecting the entire ecosystem. Just like in our short study of the fresh water marsh ecosystem, the harlequin ladybug is competing with the native ladybird species, similar to how purple loosestrife competes with the native cattail. Both invasives are fighting for more space and resources. Since the harlequin ladybug is more well adapted to the sunnier urban areas, the alien species is succeeding in outcompeting the native species. If any other organism that depended on the native ladybird for survival cannot adapt to this new species, this organism will eventually die out, which results in a decrease of biodiversity.
This article relates to our study of ecology, specifically how invasive species play an impact on our environment. Invasive species are species not native to an area, and generally outcompete a native species, and therefore affecting the entire ecosystem. Just like in our short study of the fresh water marsh ecosystem, the harlequin ladybug is competing with the native ladybird species, similar to how purple loosestrife competes with the native cattail. Both invasives are fighting for more space and resources. Since the harlequin ladybug is more well adapted to the sunnier urban areas, the alien species is succeeding in outcompeting the native species. If any other organism that depended on the native ladybird for survival cannot adapt to this new species, this organism will eventually die out, which results in a decrease of biodiversity.
Where is the Harleqin Ladybug native to? Do both ladybugs share a common food source, if so, what?
ReplyDeleteThe Harlequin Ladybug is native to East Asia, and was first introduced in 2004. The alien ladybird has a broader diet, which makes it more adapted to the urban areas. Newer studies suggest that these new ladybugs may also prey on the native species.
DeleteHow exactly has the landscape and climate factors changed in the UK? Is it only in coniferous forests where the harlequin ladybugs are not found?
ReplyDelete