A Comprehensive Review on Diversity of Predaceous Coccinellid Beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae)

This review delves into the pivotal role of coccinellid beetles, commonly known as ladybird beetles, in biological pest control and their significance in maintaining ecological balance. The successful introduction of the vedalia ladybird in 1888 to control the cottony cushion scale in California stands as a landmark in biological pest control, prompting numerous global attempts to employ predaceous ladybird beetles for aphid control. Predaceous ladybird beetles have gained attention for their ability to feed on a diverse range of prey, emphasizing the need for comprehensive biodiversity information in new areas. Coccinellids, with approximately 6,000 species globally, inhabit various environments contributing significantly to pest management. The Indian subcontinent, with its rich coccinellid diversity explored through catalogues and surveys with highlighting the ecological balance they maintain and the potential for sustainable pest management practices.